
Redbridge has released its plans for converting the former Wanstead Youth Centre on Elmcroft Avenue into an education hub.
The redevelopment includes the conversion of the large gym hall at the back of the site into classrooms, including a new second storey. The hall with stage at the front will also be turned into rooms plus dining area. The neglected tennis courts in Roding Valley Park will be refurbished and will have basketball courts installed.
Part of the plan includes making the facilities available for community hire in the evenings, at weekends, and during school holidays.


Planning permission has not yet been applied for the scheme but the council is undertaking a consultation in advance of that.
The council says the new facility will support “the growing need for a range of specialist education facilities for children and young people… through a dedicated and spacious learning environment while providing high-quality facilities and resources for families with babies and children under five”.
It adds:
The Education and Youth hub will also provide high-quality youth and community facilities for local young people, adults, community groups, voluntary agencies, and private providers in the evening, at weekends, and during school holidays.
The Early Years Play and Development Centre, a unique feature of the new facility, will be located at the front of the hub. It will host a kitchen, lounge area, community cafe, playroom, and sensory room. There will also be an infant feeding room, reception, office space, therapy space and a music recording studio. As part of the plans, the main gymnasium will be retained. The rear gymnasium will be converted into further classrooms, a dining hall and multipurpose practical space for the alternative provision.
The plans are available to view online here, with an online questionnaire available for comments and reactions..