A new YMCA

Above: View looking west along the Broadway

The new YMCA centre will feature 120 new en-suite bedrooms – an increase on the 111 bedrooms, with shared washing facilities, currently provided – offering quality supported accommodation for young people. YMCA bedrooms provide a safe, managed and supported home for those who might otherwise find themselves in inappropriate private sector shared houses or living on the streets.

The new bedrooms, which measure 15m2 and feature en suite shower rooms, have been designed to meet modern housing standards. Currently, the bedrooms are only around 10m2 and bathrooms are communal. New shared kitchen facilities will also be introduced, so that residents no longer have to rely on the canteen facilities; introducing spaces where residents can cook their own food will help in their transition towards independent living.

Our vision for the new YMCA is to provide a valued asset for the whole community. Redevelopment will enable us to vastly improve our existing facilities, for the use of both YMCA residents and local people in Wimbledon. This includes the provision of a new café and a modern gym facility.

We are considering opportunities for a loyalty scheme offering discounted gym membership for local people, and would welcome any other suggestions you have to ensure our facilities meet the needs of the local community.