RESIDENTS at a new development are set to benefit from a community centre launching this spring.

The new YMCA Community Centre, Café and Day Nursery is planned to open in North Stoneham after the Easter holidays if Covid-19 restrictions allow.

It forms part of the North Stoneham Local Centre and is said to be "a welcoming and friendly space for everyone to come together".

Owned by Eastleigh Borough Council and built by Highwood Construction, the centre will provide childcare places for up to 95 children, a bright and spacious café, a community hall, youth room, health space and meeting rooms.

Councillor Tina Campbell, Chair of Eastleigh Local Area Committee, said: “It’s great to see North Stoneham evolving and becoming a thriving community with many new residents already in their new homes.

"I am sure that this great new facility will be very popular and I look forward to it opening soon.”

YMCA Fairthorne Group will be running the facility, utilising its expertise in nursery and community centre operation, as well as offering a range of programmes and classes aimed at engaging and supporting the whole community.

Judy Hillier, Chair of YMCA said “This marks an exciting moment for the new community of North Stoneham Park.

"The YMCA wants to work in partnership with this emerging community, and this building offers a place to meet others, share stories and bring the whole community together.

"The nursery will provide a nurturing environment for the youngest children, developing early skills whilst also enabling parents to go to work.

"We’re very much looking forward to getting to know everyone.”