Grimsby teens help shape £8m youth centre

Two teenagers have played a key role in shaping a youth centre which cost £8.6m and will open in February 2026.

Jake Tinmurth, 18, and Will Owen, 19, from Grimsby, have spent months working alongside youth workers and designers to ensure the facility reflects what local young people want.

The centre, based at the former West Haven Maltings and Migar House site, will offer sports, arts and social spaces for those aged eight to 19.

Mr Owen added: "It's not just a building – it's a place where young people can feel safe and supported. Being part of the process has been amazing."

Mr Tinmuth who joined the Young People's Development Group two years ago, said: "It feels amazing, it's like a building I've made with a group of amazing people. I feel proud of this building and I put a lot of work in and I feel it will impact young people around Grimsby. We will be a youth voice for Horizon."

Membership will cost £5 a year, with sessions priced at 50 pence. The centre will include a climbing wall, music studio, sports hall and a café.

Horizon Youth Zone is part of the OnSide network, a charity that builds youth centres across the UK. The project has been funded by North East Lincolnshire Council, local businesses and charitable donations.

Work began on the Horizon Youth Zone in 2023. Located in the former West Haven Maltings and Migar House which is a Grade II listed building in the centre of the town.

Membership opened for Grimsby's new Youth Zone in November and hundreds of youngsters have already signed up.

It expects to welcome over 4,000 young people within its first year of opening.

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