Barnsley 2030

Young people's wellbeing hub

Working with YMCA Barnsley and Chilypep, we’re redeveloping a young people’s wellbeing hub. Named 'HOME' and based at the YMCA in the heart of Barnsley, we're carrying out major upgrades to the building and grounds. Contractors JP Wild were appointed in 2024 and are on site carrying out extensive refurbishment works.

The building has given vital open access youth work for over 150 years, and HOME will offer holistic wrap-around support. It also gives creative and therapeutic activities for young people that support their mental health. The redevelopment will allow YMCA and Chilypep to continue to provide a safe, welcoming and inclusive space for children and young people locally.

Alongside YMCA Barnsley and Chilypep we're:

• redeveloping the exterior and roof structures to extend the useful life of the building
• upgrading entrances and creating a new entrance into the building
• upgrading the sports hall and changing facilities for all-year use
• upgrading essential services for more efficient use
• creating a functional outdoor area
• upgrading kitchen facilities for inclusive use

For more information about the YMCA, read our YMCA impact report or visit the YMCA Barnsley YouTube channel. You can also watch Archie's story, who is one of our young volunteers, as he talks about his experiences at YMCA Barnsley.

Youth Activity Park

We're creating a new youth activity park next to Base 71 (previously known as the Youth Zone). This will include a skate park suitable for all levels, a beginners bike track, new active routes and inclusive play spaces.

The project is being co-designed in consultation with our young people. It's intended to be completed and open to the public in late summer 2025.

Northern Academy for Vocal Excellence (NAVE)

We're creating a new facility known as the NAVE which will be the home of the Barnsley Youth Choir and a centre for young people and music.

The choir is ranked fifth in the Interkultur World Rankings (the highest ranked choir from Great Britain). It's won eight first prizes in some of the most important international competitions in the world.

The NAVE will bring back into use our former computer centre building on the corner of St Mary’s Place and Westgate. Built in 1879, this was previously the courthouse for the town until the new court was built in 1970.

Barnsley Civic

The Levelling Up Fund has also supported the refurbishment of Barnsley Civic, a contemporary arts centre including theatre and gallery, to secure its future and extend its reach. This has brought into use parts of the building that haven’t been used for many years, whilst honouring and celebrating the unique heritage of this historic building.

It will offer the chance for the group to work with and attract new audiences as a vibrant cultural resource for our community. The project is aimed at attracting a younger audience - especially under 30s. This will help support and develop their skills and talents.