Salford’s new Youth Zone, SYZ, have received confirmation of their first Cornerstone Patrons, the Preston Family.
Anthony and Margaret Preston, as trustees of The Preston Family Charitable Settlement, have pledged to support the early developments of the Youth Zone over a four-year period.
Born in Eccles and Little Hulton respectively, the Preston family history and beginnings tie back to the Salford area.
The family have also supported various charitable and community services across the local area and beyond through essential donations, investment and trustee positions.
Speaking on the decision to support the new Salford Youth Zone, Anthony Preston shared: “We’re delighted to support the Salford Youth Zone because Margaret and I are Salfordians – Margaret was born in Little Hulton and I’m from Eccles. Both towns are a stone’s throw from the new Youth Zone site.”
Margaret Preston also spoke on their excitement to see SYZ’s impact on young people: “The excitement of Jack and Rose from the Salford Development Group spoke volumes, and it is wonderful to think how many young people in Salford will have the opportunity to experience all that the new Youth Zone will offer them. Anthony and I are delighted to offer our support to SYZ.”
Adam Farricker, CEO of both HideOut and Salford Youth Zone said: “This partnership marks a significant milestone in our collective efforts to empower young people and transform communities. Our Patrons are fundamental to delivering our vision and we are calling for other local businesses and organisations to talk to us about how they can get involved. By working collaboratively together, we will build a brighter future for young people across the city.”
Patrons’ contributions combine to create 70% of the annual running costs of a Youth Zone, and the support will provide a foundation to develop and maintain excellent services for young people that match the quality of the building.
With planning approval granted in 2023, the construction of SYZ, located on Belvedere Road in Pendleton, began at the end of January 2024 and is set to open in Summer 2025.
SYZ promises to usher in a new era for the city’s youth, offering educational, recreational, and developmental opportunities in a safe and inclusive environment. The purpose-built Youth Zone will open seven-days-a-week, with more than 20 activities on offer every session for young people aged 8-19, or up to 25 for those with an additional need or disability.
Beyond its direct benefits to young people, SYZ also holds immense promise for the broader community. With mentoring schemes, job opportunities, and volunteering initiatives, SYZ is poised to become a vibrant hub of activities that will enhance community cohesion and contribute to the overall growth of Salford.
