Young people lead the way to create Carlisle Youth Zone

Young People's Development Group (YPDG) member Steph Errington has won a competition to design the logo for the new Carlisle Youth Zone, opening this year.

Director of community development Martin Murphy said: "I am delighted with Steph's logo - it is vibrant, exciting and colourful - it really catches your eye and the attention of all who see it."

Steph, 16, a student at Richard Rose Central Academy, won an Ipod Touch, which was presented to her by the Carlisle Youth Zone board members. The runners-up in the competition, 13-19 year olds from Carlisle, will also receive prizes in the coming weeks.

Board members David Allan, Tom Leach and John Mallinson said: "There will be much more to celebrate very soon for our young people across Carlisle with this fantastic project...really well done Steph."

Martin said: "This is an incredible opportunity for the young people in Carlisle - our vision is now becoming a reality and the Young People's Development Group are leading this amazing project."

The building work started last month, and the project is to be completed by November.

Over the next two months the YPDG will select the fabrics, furnishings, lighting and finishes for the building; visit other youth groups across the Carlisle area in order to discuss The Youth Zone; elect their representatives for the Youth Zone Board; and create and develop the new website.

Since the YPDG first met in July 2008 they have had a very exciting year, including supporting the successful Big Lottery - myplace application.

Almost £5 milion will be spent creating world-class facilities for young people across the Carlisle area.

The YPDG have been instrumental in developing the building and its facilities alongside the project architects and have visited a number of Youth Centre's across the Country.

They consist of four sub groups who are currently plan with Martin Murphy and the ‘shadow' Youth Zone Board the next phase of project development, and they work closely with Connexions and the City Council.

The Group have over 40 representatives from across the area, from projects such as the Carlisle Joint School Council and Carlisle area wide youth groups.

Members ages range from 9 -19 and they meet on Monday evenings at 6.00pm.

Martin said: "We are very confident that we are creating the most amazing facilities for young people in Carlisle. If you are interested come along and join us...Carlisle Youth Zone will be the place to be in 2010"

To join contact Martin Murphy on 07801366549, email cyzinfo@cyz.org.uk or visit www.carlisleyouthzone.com