YOUNG people in a town finally have their own place to go to in the evenings after the opening of a new centre.

The Loughton Youth Project has formally opened The Space, next to Loughton Library, in Traps Hill, offering facilities including a cafe bar, pool table, magazines and wifi.

Also on offer are a number of media-based programmes using radio pod-casting, video, magazine design and photography.

The Space marks the end of two years of planning and £100,000 worth of fund-raising from Nick Robinson, the Loughton Youth Project manager.

A former Davenant School pupil, Nick, 28, started the project with the help of Epping Forest District Council when he served there for two years as a young persons officer.

He said: “There were fears that youths were congregating in Loughton and other places because they didn't have a place to go to. Young people had quite a large fear of crime.

“It's a big relief to see it open. I'm really delighted with the results. Young people coming here keep telling their friends they can't believe it when they walk in and see the facilities that are here. It's an exciting time for young people in Loughton.”

The Space was made possible through grants from Essex County Council, Epping Forest District Council, Loughton Town Council and the Charles S French Charitable Trust, and is already attracting young people with its facilities.

Debden Park student, Hannah Webster, 15, said: "The Space is the best thing ever. The staff are wicked and there's so much to do."

The Space is open every day from 3.30pm to 6pm and on occasional late evenings for planned events. Visit loughtonyouthproject.com for more information.