This includes universal services for children up to the age of 21, targeted support to those aged up to 25 with vulnerabilities, skills and job training, and upgraded play and sports facilities.
A focus of its employability support is offering opportunities to learn about new technologies, including artificial intelligence and virtual reality.
Called Fusebox, the youth zone is based in the former home to the Gas Light Company and was built in 1818.
-
Special Report: Youth Employment
-
Analysis: Study reveals the protective role of youth clubs and trusted adults
Its upgrade has been funded through the Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s Youth Investment Fund, and 40% of its running costs are being met by local businesses.
“The funding from government and our incredibly supportive patron network has given us a once in a generation opportunity to rejuvenate our Blackburn facilities,” said Blackburn Youth Zone chief executive Leon Crosby, who as a child attended Bolton Lads and Girls Club, the UK’s first youth zone.
“The vision for this space is bold – a cutting-edge learning and enrichment zone that will unlock doors for young people and equip them for the future."
Fusebox has 5,000 members aged between five and 19, which is around one in eight young people in Blackburn.
“We have respected and are preserving this heritage for future generations," added Crosby, who is also chief executive of Darwen youth zone, which is undergoing a similar £3mn overhaul over the next year.
He continued: "Fusebox will serve as an inspiration designed to provide career pathways, skills training and opportunities for young people to improve themselves,” .
Blackburn and Darwen Youth Zone chairman Wayne Wild said: “We are always looking to grow our business network and welcome any new companies that want to join us as we inspire young people to gain skills and aspirations, to gain the best jobs in the future, genuinely levelling up opportunities for future generations.”
