IT’S all systems go for the Wey Centre in Wey Hill after Waverley Borough Council got the green light this week for a new Haslemere Youth Hub.

The borough council pledged it would give the youth centre a new lease of life when it took back management from Surrey County Council in September 2018.

It delivered on its promise this week, announcing the revitalised hub would offer classes and clinics, including dance, drama, art, baby groups, singing, yoga, sports and martial arts throughout the day and into the early evening.

At the centre of the hub there will be a cafe, open 9am to 5pm from Monday to Saturday.

The hub is designed to provide a safe place for young people to meet, try new activities and take part in community events.

One of the rooms is dedicated to Haslemere teenager “Jaz” Bush, who tragically took her own life in August 2017. It will offer free counselling services to young people.

Waverley deputy leader and finance portfolio holder Haslemere councillor Ged Hall said: “It is absolutely amazing what the team have achieved in such a short space of time.

“The Wey Centre has long been neglected, but now we can move forward and transform it into a youth centre the whole town can be proud of.

“We have been truly overwhelmed by the trades men and women of Haslemere who have stepped up and donated their time and materials for the good of the community.

“The team have called them ‘The Haslemere Hub Heroes’ and all will be honoured on a wall at the centre. It is a fantastic example of what a small group of determined people can achieve.

“Waverley is proud to give our support to such a great initiative and such a committed team.”

Waverley housing portfolio holder Haslemere councillor Carole King and borough council economic portfolio holder, Haslemere councillor Jim Edwards will join Laura Musco and Alison Rose as trustees.

Mrs King said: “I am excited to serve as a trustee for the new centre. For too long the Wey Centre has suffered from under-investment and a lack of coherent management.

“Waverley and the Haslemere youth hub team are working closely to make a truly community-based facility for our young people.

“If you feel your family will use the hub or you feel this is a worthy project please consider a donation however small.”

Karen Musco, who has run Streetnation dance school at the centre for nine years with Nadeana Simpson-Hadden, said: “We are really excited to be managing the new youth hub.

“We are awaiting our formal charity registration due in the coming weeks and hope to raise donations to get new equipment for the centre and help with the ongoing running costs.

? Anyone keen to support youth services in Haslemere is asked to email [email protected]."