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Woodlands Hall officially handed over to Y Plus Youth Services to deliver vibrant new era for Headley Down community.
Woodlands Hall in Headley Down has officially been handed over to Y Plus Youth Services CIC, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the much-loved community space.
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Following the announcement earlier this year, East Hampshire District Council has now formally transferred the management of the facility to Y Plus. The local community-focused organisation will take the lead in expanding the hall’s offering, with new youth services, events, and inclusive activities for all ages set to launch over the summer and autumn.
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Y Plus will be partnering with organisations to re-launch an on site nursery, set to open in September, music and production lessons and sessions, community sport sessions and social events - more details on all of these exciting developments will be announced over the coming weeks.
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The official handover took place on the 18th June, with representatives from East Hampshire District Council and Y Plus Youth Services coming together to mark the occasion.
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This is the first transfer since EHDC set out its ambition to support our communities by transferring council-owned assets to local organisations. This is a key part of the council’s new approach to community development, combining the council’s physical assets with the passion and commitment of local community groups to support our residents.
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Cllr Adeel Shah, Portfolio Holder for Community Development and Engagement at EHDC, said:
"This is a fantastic example of a local organisation stepping up to run a valued community facility. Through our Community Asset Transfer policy the council is committed to empowering local groups to play an active role in their neighbourhoods
"I know of Y+ from its work in Whitehill & Bordon and I am delighted they are a shining example of what can be achieved through community collaboration."
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East Hampshire District Councillor - Headley Ward - Cllr Anthony Williams, said:
"Woodlands Hall is a first class facility for residents of Headley Down and Heatherlands. I am pleased that Y+ have been chosen to take Woodlands Hall forward for the benefit of existing users of the hall and new users - young and old. The new activities planned will make a real difference to the lives of local people in Headley Down and surrounding areas, thus ensuring that the building will continue to be of benefit to the whole community".
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The hall, on the Heatherlands Estate, has long been recognised as a cornerstone for local community life. The team at Y Plus are focused on bringing services to Woodlands Hall to support youth development, family engagement, and accessible community programming.
Jodie Gibbs-Farrow, Founder and Director of Y Plus Youth Services, said:
'Woodlands Hall is an exciting opportunity to firstly bring new experiences and opportunities to the people of Headley Down and surrounding areas, and secondly expand the reach Y Plus has, enabling us to work with even more people in our local community. We're really keen to work with local people to provide them with what they want, and need, at Woodlands Hall, both now and in the future".
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Y Plus has already begun engaging with local partners, volunteers, and young people to co-design the new schedule of events and services. The first youth club sessions will begin across the summer holidays, with a community open day planned for July.
For more information and updates on upcoming events, residents are encouraged to follow Y Plus Youth Services on social media or visit https://www.ypluscoaching.co.uk/