224 Youth Zone and Knowle West Media Centre Announce Creative and Tech-Focused Partnership
224 is proud to announce an exciting new partnership with Knowle West Media Centre (KWMC) that will support the development and delivery of a dynamic creative and technology offer at 224 Youth Zone, the new state-of-the-art youth facility currently under construction in South Bristol.
As part of the partnership, both teams will work on the development of 224’s dedicated Maker Space, a vibrant environment where young people will be able to explore digital media, design, coding, fabrication, and hands-on creativity. The space will be a key part of 224’s wider offer, opening new pathways for young people to build skills and confidence in creative tech.
In addition to shaping the Maker Space offer, KWMC will support the Young People’s Development Group, the youth voice at the heart of this project, as they co-design and embed creative elements into the building’s fit-out. This includes support with projects such as interior murals, the design of Founder Patron plaques, and other visual features that will celebrate the identity and story of the Youth Zone and its community.
Through this partnership, KWMC will also help build a longer-term creative and digital offer as part of 224’s programme once the Youth Zone opens in 2026. Together, the two organisations will provide high-quality opportunities for young people to access creative, cultural, and technology-based experiences in a space where they feel safe, seen, and supported.
A key focus of the partnership is connecting young people with existing local resources, such as The Factory, KWMC’s makerspace in Knowle West, ensuring more young people can benefit from these amazing facilities, expertise, and opportunities already rooted in their community.
This partnership brings together two organisations with deep ties to the local area and a shared commitment to unlocking potential, promoting inclusion, and creating spaces where young people can thrive, reflecting the shared values of both organisations, putting youth voice, creativity, and community at the centre of everything.
‘’KWMC are very happy to partner with 224 as they establish the Youth Zone. We believe in the creative potential of all young people and hope more local young people will explore their creativity, develop digital skills, follow their passions, and shape their futures and communities. As organisations rooted in South Bristol, we’re proud to work together as part of strong local networks committed to supporting young people and our wider community.’’
Ellen Havard, Head of Young People’s Programme at KWMC
“This partnership with Knowle West Media Centre is a brilliant example of how 224 Youth Zone will offer more than just a safe space, it will be a launchpad for young people to explore their creativity, develop new skills, and access pathways into the creative and digital industries. By embedding a strong creative offer into the heart of the Youth Zone, we’re opening doors for young people in South Bristol to discover new talents and hobbies with the potential to take steps towards exciting futures in the industries that inspire them.”
Matt Justice, Youth Moves/224 CEO
The £12 million facility is being made possible thanks to contributions from both the public and private sectors, including Bristol City Council, the Government’s Youth Investment Fund, and the St. James’s Place Charitable Foundation. Bristol City Council will also contribute to the Youth Zone’s annual running costs for the first three years.
224 is being developed by award-winning charity Youth Moves (based in South Bristol), in partnership with national charity OnSide, and Bristol City Council. The facility will enable provide support for over 4,000 young people in Bristol, aged between 8 and 19, or up to age 25 for those with additional needs.
Currently under construction on land adjacent to Hartcliffe Way, the Youth Zone is due to be open in Spring 2026. Based on OnSide’s successful network of 15 Youth Zones across the UK, it will offer young people a world of opportunity through high-quality facilities and support from trusted youth workers.
Facilities will include access to over 20 activities each evening, ranging from football, boxing, and climbing to creative arts, music, drama, and employability support – all for just £5 annual membership and 50p per visit.
Knowle West Media Centre joins confirmed partners Bristol Sport Foundation, Bristol Young Carers, WECIL, Off The Record and The Cause. This latest addition will support us to deliver an exciting and creative programme to young people.
These collaborations will ensure that young people can access mental health support, creative outlets, sports, and new experiences, all under one roof.
Discussions are ongoing with further local organisations, and several new partnerships will be announced soon.
224 will open in Spring 2026, providing a dedicated, inclusive, and inspirational space for thousands of young people in South Bristol to feel safe, be themselves, and reach their full potential. If you are interested in supporting 224 or working with us in partnership, please get in touch with us.
info@youthmoves224.org