Waterside Centre to cut ribbon in delayed opening ceremony

Berkshire Youth will finally cut the ribbon on its Waterside Centre next week.

The building, which sits alongside the River Kennet in Newbury town centre, was reopened in 2021 after a full refurbishment.

More than £1.4m was raised transform what was a dilapidated centre into the new modern facility.

The ribbon cutting will take place on Thursday, November 3, with Lord Richard Benyon doing the honours.

The event had been delayed due to the pandemic and the facility has been operating for just over a year.

In this time the centre has hosted music nights – following the launch of its music lounge with Maestros and VoxThrive – held summer activity programmes for young people during holiday periods and is home to a weekly community larder.

It has also been the new home to local business Colleen’s Kitchen which acts as an on-site coffee stop for residents and passers-by.

Guests of the open evening will be treated to speeches, presentations and musical performances from young people.

There will also be presentations to recognise the achievements of some of the young people over the past year.

Youth and community manager Kelly Leach, based at Waterside Centre, said: “Waterside has already proved itself to be a valued and important community asset.

“It’s been so rewarding to witness the positive impact our work has had on young people’s lives.

“It’s brilliant to get together for the Waterside Centre official opening to celebrate young people’s successes and achievements, and how far we have all come.”

The event will be held at the Waterside Centre on Thursday, November 3, from 6pm to 8pm.