Creating inclusive spaces for Hackney’s youth

THE ASPIRATION
Responding to local voices
The London Borough of Hackney set out to transform a disused part of the Old Baths site in Hackney Wick into a vibrant, youth-focused community space. The aim was to directly respond to findings from the Hackney Wick Through Young Eyes report, which highlighted a serious lack of facilities and safe outdoor spaces for young people. With support from the Mayor of London’s Good Growth Fund and the London Legacy Development Corporation, the council committed to creating a multi-functional hub that would encourage active, healthy lifestyles – shaped by young people, for young people.

OUR RESPONSE
Delivering a sustainable, community-first space
We acted as Construction Consultant, Cost Manager, Employer’s Agent and Principal Designer. We supported the council and architect to bring the youth-led vision to life, delivering a durable, flexible facility within a tight budget and short programme. The facility features a multi-use games area (MUGA), together with a single-storey building with classroom, office space, storage and toilets, all designed with accessibility in mind.

Sustainability was a key focus. The building uses Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) – a low-carbon, long-lasting material – and the whole site is designed to support outdoor activity and nature engagement. Through collaboration with the design team, council and community, we ensured this space met the borough’s needs and values.

THE RESULT
Award-winning and widely used
Completed in early 2022, the £843,000 project has been operated by Young Hackney and was officially opened by the Mayor of Hackney. The facility has already become a vital asset for the borough’s Early Help service, offering a safe and inclusive space for young people aged 6–19 (or up to 25 with SEND). In 2022, the project won a New London Award in the ‘Wellbeing’ category.

THE LASTING IMPACT
Designed to grow with the community
This hub is more than a sports unit – it’s a lasting investment in Hackney Wick. Built from sustainable materials and shaped by local voices, it’s a flexible, inclusive space that supports wellbeing, opportunity and community pride.

Find out more about our multidisciplinary approach at Ridge.