Major milestone for new youth and community centre in Bookham

Surrey County Council Leader, Tim Oliver, project and community partners gathered this week to mark a significant milestone in the development of a new youth and community centre for Bookham, a project set to become a vibrant hub for young people and residents of all ages.

The first dig, marking the start of the construction phase of the new centre, reflects the dedication and collaboration of many partners, including Surrey County Council’s Land & Property team, CampbellReith, Beard Construction, Bookham Youth and Community Association (BYCA), and many more.

While progress has not come without challenges, the commitment to delivering for the community has remained steadfast. Initial plans proposed in 2021 for a new facility on the Lower Road recreation ground had to be revised following changes to planning regulations affecting green belt land, rendering the original scheme unviable. Despite these setbacks and delays, the Council remained determined to find a way forward.

Cllr Clare Curran, Surrey County Council Member for Bookham and Fetcham West said: “Starting to build our new youth and community centre is bringing our shared vision to life. A debt of gratitude is owed to the BYCA, the local community and the Bookhams Residents’ Association which have all played a vital role in supporting this project throughout and bringing it forward.”

Tim Oliver, Leader of the Council said: “This new youth and community centre is designed to be far more than just a building. It will be a welcoming and inclusive space that strengthens community connections and supports wellbeing. The centre will provide a safe and inspiring environment for young people, a place for families, clubs and local groups to gather, and a hub where older residents can remain active and socially connected.”

With flexible indoor facilities alongside outdoor sports amenities, the centre will be leased to and run by Bookham Youth and Community Association. It will offer a safe space for young people and offer a wide range of opportunities for residents to be active, social, and engaged, all within their local area. Accessibility and inclusivity have been central to the design, ensuring the space is open and welcoming to everyone in the community.

David Cox, Chair of Bookham Youth and Community Association said: “The original youth club, delivered by the Leatherhead Youth Project with support from Bookhams’ Churches Together and BYCA, thrived and the young people of Bookham and surrounding areas felt they had their “own place”. Building on this success, the new Youth and Community Centre will provide a safe, inclusive hub for local young people to reach their full potential and will also support Bookham Colts under 9s football teams.

"This milestone reflects strong partnerships with Land and Property and CampbellReith and we would also like to thank Your Fund Surrey, whose small community projects grant will help equip the centre. BYCA extends its thanks to all those who have contributed thus far to delivery of the new building.”

Tom Jenkinson, Director at Beard Construction said: “Beard Construction are delighted to be selected as Principal Contractor to deliver the new Bookham Community Centre. This project is an investment in the local community, and we’re proud to be part of it.
With features like a Glulam structural frame, green roof, Electric Vehicle charging facilities, and enhanced Multi Use Games Area (MUGA) pitch, the development will become a vibrant hub for Bookham.”

Grant Plain, Partner at CampbellReith said: “As project manager, we have worked closely with Surrey County Council, Bookham Youth and Community Association and Beard Construction, to bring to life long-awaited plans for a new sustainable community centre in Bookham. We are proud to play a part in delivering a thriving community asset for current and future generations to enjoy.”

This development represents Surrey County Council’s long-term investment in Bookham’s future, fostering stronger relationships with local communities, improving health and wellbeing, and creating opportunities for generations to come. The youth and community centre building is expected to be completed in early 2027.

Photo credit: Thousand Word Media