A New Chapter for Rutland’s Youth Dedicated Space Set to Open in Oakham at Rutland County Library
Rutland County Council’s Living Well service is rolling out the welcome mat for local youth with the official launch of a brand-new, purpose-built youth space. Opening its doors on Monday, 21 September, the facility is designed to offer a safe, dynamic environment where young people can hang out, learn, and connect.
Located behind the Best Start Family Hub in Oakham conveniently situated next to Oakham Library the project comes directly in response to local youth feedback requesting a secure, welcoming environment to meet friends, try new activities, and access trusted adult support.
What to Expect During Launch Week
To celebrate the opening, the youth space is hosting a special action-packed introductory week from Monday 21 to Friday 25 September, welcoming visitors daily between 4:00 PM and 5:30 PM.
The daily line-up features a variety of engaging events:
Monday, 21 September: Opening night party
Tuesday, 22 September: Lego masters
Wednesday, 23 September: Games night (exclusive to Year 7 students)
Thursday, 24 September: Feel-good mocktail bar
Friday, 25 September: Friday vibes
Visitors can drop in for a single session, attend the entire week, or simply pop in for a quick look around. Organizers emphasise that there is no pressure to participate in every activity, and attendees don't need to know anyone beforehand.
Designed for Fun and Relaxation
The new facility features a flexible layout packed with modern amenities to cater to diverse interests, including:
A multi-game pool, air hockey, and table tennis table
An interactive screen and boxing machine
A calming sensory bubble wall
Dedicated chill-out zones for socialising
Putting Young People in the Driver's Seat
Crucially, the launch is only the beginning. Rutland County Council is handing over the creative reins to the community, inviting attendees to share ideas and help choose the permanent name for the youth space.
“The youth space has been created with young people's needs in mind, but we don’t want to decide everything before young people arrive. We want them to come in, use the space, tell us what works and help shape what happens here next,” Cllr Tim Smith, Rutland County Council’s Portfolio Holder for Children and Families
Full details and day-to-day timetables will be announced via the
Including Market Place, Market Street, Church Street, Crown Walk,
John Street, Melton Road and Deans Street and Gaol Street.
https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/highstreetoakham
