Content

Background
The Council currently operates 5 Adventure Play Centres
which are now under review
 
Council notes:
 
·       
Some of the primary
roles of Councils is to build and nurture communities and ensuring
Children and young people can reach their full
potential.
 
·       
That despite tough
financial conditions over the last 14 years, Greenwich Council has
managed to responsibly invest significant sums of money into our
youth facilities and Young Greenwich offer.
 
·       
That due to surging
demand for services in Greenwich and demographic changes, Greenwich
Council faces an estimated £45 million gap in funding for the
financial year of 25/26 that will require tough decisions to ensure
a balanced budget.
 
·       
That Greenwich Council
has invested over £10m over the last 3 years into our youth
services delivering open access and targeted support for children,
young people and their families across the borough. 
 
·       
That each year,
between 5,500 and 6,500 children and young people have used Our
Greenwich’s youth services, benefitting from a range of
support, advice and activities averaging around 80 sessions each
week. These are delivered in community-based locations by local
community groups and through four youth hubs located in Eltham,
Woolwich, Thamesmead, and Charlton.
 
·       
That a total of
£1,755,957 has been invested into our playgrounds and sports
facilities across the Borough.
 
·       
That Greenwich Council
has invested £1.5 million into our Emotional Wellbeing Hubs
for children and young people to support student attendance and our
young people's mental health.
 
Council Resolves:
 
·       
To deliver a
modernised and enhanced Adventure Play offer that reflects the
changing needs of our communities and maximises opportunities for
young people across the borough. That we recognise that the
significant expansion and refurbishment of open spaces with
unrestricted play and recreation will substantially increase access
for young people and families to enjoy quality outdoor
experiences.
 
·       
To remain steadfast in
our commitment to investing in our young people and children. That
we will continue to prioritise our playground facilities, youth
services, and children's centres as essential investments in our
community's future.
 
·       
That any proposed
changes to our Adventure Play Centre model will be subject to a
comprehensive open consultation process, ensuring full transparency
and meaningful community engagement. We recognise that these
facilities are valued community assets, and residents must have a
genuine opportunity to share their views, concerns, and suggestions
about any proposed modifications to service delivery.