CONSTRUCTION work on a multi-million pound youth centre in Barnsley town centre took in a significant milestone recently when its steel structure was completed.

Barnsley Youth Zone, on Schwabisch Gmund Way, will include a four-court sports hall, a rooftop 3G outdoor kick-pitch, gym, boxing and martial arts room, a recording studio, dance studio, sensory room and mentoring kitchen upon its anticipated completion next year.

Run by OnSide, the venue – which will cost £9m – is taking shape and its steel skeleton is now in place.

Chief executive Jamie Masraff said: “I want to take this opportunity to thank all of our brilliant supporters, including Barnsley Council, who have got us to this point.

“Ahead of opening next year, we’ll be looking to work with the town’s brilliant business community as we extend our growing ‘Founder Patron’ family.

“Barnsley Youth Zone will provide young people with incredible opportunities and access to trained youth workers who believe in them and their potential.”

It will be open to young people aged between eight and 19, and up to 25 for those with additional needs, seven days a week.

OnSide expect the facility to be open between 9am and 10pm on weekends and school holidays, and between 4pm and 10pm during term time.

Jamie added: “We’re always keen to move as quickly as possible as we know young people lack activities and opportunities outside of school.

“Now we have the spade in the ground it’ll be really quick.

“We’ve got just over a year to build the venue and then only a couple of months later it’ll be open to the public.

“We’re going to have at least 4,000 members signed up in the first year – it’s supporting so many young people.”

Coun Robin Franklin, Barnsley Council’s cabinet spokesperson for regeneration and culture, said the venue will be a ‘fantastic addition’ to the town centre.

“I’m delighted that construction is now underway.

“Barnsley Youth Zone will be a fantastic addition to our redeveloped town centre, not only adding to its continuing development and growth but also providing outstanding facilities for young people, supporting them to be the best they can be.

“As we work to make Barnsley the place of possibilities, the hone will provide young people with a place to make new friends, build positive relationships with supportive adults, and learn new skills.

“All of this will help build the confidence they need to grow into happy, healthy and successful young adults.”