A local hall in Chadwell Heath that has stood empty for 15 years will now be converted into a youth centre thanks to funding from the Government’s Youth Investment Fund.

Padnall Hall in Marks Gate will now be refurbished as a youth provision for young people in the area.

Council officers and colleagues from Be First worked together to put forward a proposal to redevelop and refurbish Padnall Hall into a new youth centre. The funding also includes the employment of an engagement officer to work closely with local residents and young people.

Leader of the Council, Cllr Darren Rodwell, said: “We welcome this announcement, and it is even more exciting as we are one of only two London boroughs to have been successful with a bid.

“We have listened to concerns from residents about the building and importantly their clamour for us to provide things for young people to do in the area.

“This money will help us to create, expand and improve local youth facilities and services, in order to deliver positive outcomes for our young people, including improved health and wellbeing, and skills for work, employability and life.

“My thanks to our staff and those from Be First who have worked hard on the bid.”

The council will now work with local voluntary and community organisations who will run the centre. A development officer will be employed to work with the young people, local community and the contractors on the centre’s design and build.