A STATE-OF-THE-ART hub for the town’s youngsters will officially open its doors tomorrow.
Young people will have a chance to try some of the activities that will be available at Base71, on Schwabisch Gmund Way.
It features a climbing wall, sports hall, arts and crafts room, dance studio, music room, recording studio and a gymnasium, alongside catering facilities offering a healthy meal for just £1.
Operating as an independent charity run by qualified youth workers and volunteers seven days a week, Base71 is the 17th youth zone developed by national charity OnSide.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place at 10.15am, followed by a family open day from 11am, celebrating the launch of Yorkshire’s first youth zone.
The building was part-funded by Barnsley Council, with online retailer ASOS - whose warehouse is based in the town - contributing £1.2m towards construction costs.
Barnsley Council additionally donated £150,000 to fund a year’s free membership for all young people in the borough, who sign up before the end of March 2026 through its ‘Great Childhoods Ambition’ programme.
Membership normally costs £5 per year, with each visit priced at 50p, and almost 3,000 young people have already signed up.
Chief executive Mandy Carlson said: “After years of planning and countless hours of hard work by our team, we are thrilled to finally open our doors to the young people of Barnsley.
“We have already exceeded our initial membership and visitor targets throughout our soft launch phase, which clearly demonstrates the demand for Base71 within our community.
“We are incredibly grateful to all of our supporters and funders, including Barnsley Council and ASOS.
“Without their commitment, this valuable new asset for the borough would not have been possible.”
Councillor Ashley Peace, cabinet spokesperson for children’s services, hailed its arrival.
“The opening of Base71 next weekend is a hugely positive milestone for our borough.
“This fantastic new facility shows a real investment in our children and young people, providing a safe, welcoming and inspiring place where they can build confidence, develop skills and thrive.
“We’re incredibly proud to have worked in partnership to help make Base71 a reality - a place where young people can find encouragement, guidance, and opportunities to unlock their potential.
“As part of our Great Childhoods Ambition, we’re covering the £5 annual membership fee for the first year for all eligible young people aged eight to 18 in Barnsley - please do make the most of this offer and sign up today.”
