Over the past year, through the SYEP community outreach project, we’ve listened to feedback from young people and parents in Sprowston and Old Catton. Many have highlighted that while there is plenty of open access public provision in the area, there’s a strong desire for a private, dedicated space for youth activities within the community. This space could also serve as a venue for hosting community-based events.

The need for such a space became especially clear in response to the impacts of Covid-19, as well as through the positive outcomes seen in our outdoor programs, such as increased confidence, improved mental health, and better physical fitness. Based on this feedback, the ideal space would focus on being an outdoor area where young people can engage with nature and enjoy active, supportive environments.

Thanks to close collaboration with The Reverend Simon Stokes and the Sprowston Parish Churches, SYEP has been given the opportunity to take over stewardship of a one-acre plot of land next to the Church Lane allotments in Sprowston. Located near the Millennium Wood and Barkers Lane Recreation Ground, we plan to transform this space into the Urban Adventure Garden, a hub for outdoor activities and community engagement.