PLANS for a new centre for young people has been described by the Children’s Commissioner for England as “the best and most exciting” he has seen.

Sir Al Aynsley-Green was in Thamesmead with his deputy Sue Berelowitz, to talk to children and young people about the issues concerning them and what is being done about them.

Members of Thamesmead Youth Voice helped to plan his visit, and spoke to Sir Al about their history as well as plans to build the Youth Leisure Zone, based in the Southern Arches, under the Harrow Manorway flyover in Abbey Wood.

The arches are currently home The cAve (corr) climbing centre, Archway Project, YMCA Sailing Club and Thamesmead Gym.

The project has attracted £5m funding from the Government’s myspace (corr) initiative, which will be used to refurbish them and add new facilities, such as a performing arts studio and provide advice, support and training.

Sir Al also met members of Bexley Youth Council who gave a presention on its work and its links to the Thamesmead group.