'EXCITING plans' for a £6 million youth zone are progressing as attention turns to ensuring services are as accessible as possible for youngsters who are 'the future of our country'.

Warrington South MP Faisal Rashid met Mark Brocklehurst, the new chairman of Warrington Youth Club, to discuss plans for the development of the Onside Youth Zone.

Mr Brocklehurst was recently appointed to the role after Andy Gatcliffe stepped down on health grounds following major heart surgery.

During the meeting the pair discussed a range of proposals for the site, which is receiving £3 million funding from the council's capital programme, as well as a further £3 million from the private sector, charitable trusts and grants.

The new facility will be located next to the University Technical College in the town centre.

It is a joint venture between the council, national young people's charity Onside and Warrington Youth Club.

It will be a purpose-built facility offering affordable activities in sports, arts, music, employability and mentoring to young people, aged eight to 19, or up to 25 for people with a disability.

Mr Rashid said: "It was great to meet Mark and to hear how the exciting plans for the new youth zone are coming along.

"During the meeting Mark gave me an update on the project and talked me through the benefits it aims to deliver for our young people.

"I also paid tribute to Andy Gatcliffe, who has worked tirelessly on this project and on many other initiatives to help our young people.

"I want to wish him all the best and to thank him for his services to Warrington.

"I made it clear to Mark during our meeting that the services available must be as accessible as possible to all young people from across Warrington.

"I stressed that young people are the future of our country and our town and that I will be supporting any initiatives that will benefit the younger generation.

"Further meetings will be arranged to ensure that the new facility is fit for purpose and to ensure that the public money that is spent is worthwhile.

"I am looking forward to seeing how the new project develops."