A newly renovated youth facility has reopened following an extensive renovation project.
Brighton Youth Centre’s refurbishment has created a modern, inclusive, and sustainable space for the future with support from a £2.3 million grant from the council alongside a £5.2 million award from the government’s Youth Investment Fund.
Brighton Youth Centre has supported children and young people in the city for more than 100 years since opening as Brighton Boy’s Club in 1917.
Alongside activities such as music, drama, arts, gaming and the only indoor skatepark in the city, today Brighton Youth Centre also connects young people to other local services including mental health, LGBTQ+ and refugee support.
The west side of Brighton Youth Centre’s building has been rebuilt entirely, and the entrance has been relocated to the corner of Edward Street. An outdoor space has also been created at the back, alongside a full internal refit which includes an accessible lift.
More than 70 young people helped to shape the design of the new facility, putting the needs of those that use Brighton Youth Centre at the heart of the project.
This included sharing ideas for safety, inclusivity, accessibility, and expanding the range of services and activities offered to include pathways to employability, health and wellbeing.
Brighton Youth Centre’s grand opening coincided with the launch of B.fest, the city’s annual youth arts festival and the UK’s only fully youth-led festival.
B.fest brings arts and culture closer to young people by involving them in every aspect of the festival’s planning, organising, designing, exhibiting and performing.
B.fest 2025 featured musical performances, dance workshops, spray painting, gaming, skateboarding and more. For further information, see B.fest’s full schedule for 2025.
Councillor Emma Daniel, Cabinet member for Children, Families and Youth Services, said: “I’m delighted that the new-and-improved Brighton Youth Centre has been unveiled following an extensive renovation project, which was supported by funding from the council.
“The state-of-the-art hub on Edward Street is more accessible and inclusive than ever before, offering access to high quality youth support and providing a range of sports, arts and leisure facilities.
“Our priority is to build a better future for children and young people in Brighton & Hove through services that support health, wellbeing and employability. The opportunities on offer at this fantastic centre will help give our young people the best start at life.”
Mike Roe, Brighton Youth Centre's CEO, said: “This has been a long time coming, and a huge community effort. We couldn’t be prouder to finally welcome everyone into the new Brighton Youth Centre. This space is for young people now and for future generations – and we can’t wait to celebrate with the city.”
