A MULTI-million pound youth centre, part of Longbridge’s regeneration project, has been given the green light.

Developers St Modwen and Birmingham City Council have reached an agreement to build the £5 million pound myplace centre, which is set to provide much-needed services for 13 to 19-year-olds.

Planning permission was granted earlier this year and construction work is set to start in the summer, which should enable the centre to open its doors in summer 2012.

The state-of-the-art building will feature multi-functional rooms, performing arts space, a sports hall and conference rooms.

It will also include an ICT suite, music and media centre, workshop area, an outdoor multi-use games area, cafe and garden. The facilities are designed to support a range of sporting activities, creative and performing arts, active citizenship and volunteering, youth business, social enterprise, guidance counselling such as health services, education, training and career advice.

To be built just off Longbridge Lane, it will be developed with a grant from the government’s myplace programme and the Big Lottery Fund scheme which invests in facilities for youngsters across the UK.

Mike Murray, St Modwen’s senior development surveyor, said: “It is excellent news funding and planning permission are now in place.

“The facility will play an important part in the long-term social, cultural and economic improvement of the area, as there is currently no statutory youth provision.

"Providing a safe and welcoming environment, the centre will give young people the opportunity to participate in a range of activities and enterprise programmes, with the space to socialise and enjoy new learning experiences in preparation for their future. In turn, it is envisaged that this will have a positive impact on the ongoing growth and future prosperity of Longbridge.”