Salford Youth Zone: Putting Young People at the Centre of Urban Regeneration

Regeneration shapes communities by influencing where people live, how they connect, and what opportunities exist. Young people, often the most affected, are now being given a leading role in this process.

Salford Youth Zone, part of Empower (the charity that oversees HideOut and Salford Youth Zone), demonstrates how urban regeneration and youth engagement can work hand in hand. In partnership with Muse, ECF, and other partnerships, this new facility in Salford, which opened its doors in July 2025, is designed by young people, for young people.

Built With Young People, For Young People

Salford Youth Zone will provide a safe, welcoming space for young people aged 8 to 19 – or up to 25 for those with additional needs. Membership is free and the Youth Zone offers more than 20 evening youth activities, a hot meal, and support from trained youth workers, all for just 50p per visit.

Young people have been involved throughout the process, working with architects, designers, and brand experts. Their input has shaped the design, ensuring it reflects how they use and enjoy the environment. They’ve also shared their views in local and national media, amplifying their voices and guiding the project’s development.

Part of a Wider Regeneration

Located near Salford Crescent, the Youth Zone sits within a broader regeneration effort led by ECF, in partnership with Salford City Council and Salford University. Muse, as a patron donor, supports the Youth Zone’s sustainability and creates pathways into the built environment through mentoring, apprenticeships, and skills development.

This partnership highlights how youth development can be integrated into regeneration to create meaningful opportunities for young people.

A Practical, Inclusive Model

While rooted in Salford, this model offers wider lessons. Every community has young people eager to contribute ideas and shape their neighbourhoods. Including them early in regeneration leads to stronger, more connected communities.

This approach requires no complex systems – just genuine listening, creating space, and building partnerships that involve young people meaningfully from the start.

Embedding Young Voices in Placemaking

Salford Youth Zone exemplifies how young people can be active participants in shaping their communities. We are proud to work with Muse, ECF, and others to champion the potential of young people in Salford and hope this inspires others to place youth voices at the centre of their communities.