News from Southampton Labour

Southampton Labour announces Zoe Braithwaite play centre to stay open

Southampton’s Labour Administration is pleased to announce that revised budget proposals published yesterday include keeping open the Zoe Braithwaite play centre in Lordshill, subject to a final decision by Councillors on 13th February.

In the first version of the 2013/14 budget, announced in November, a proposal was made to remove the whole of the youth and play service, and what is now being proposed is a partial reduction, which can allow time for transition to alternatives where possible and a review of service options going forward.

There has been a high level of feedback on this particular proposal during the consultation period.

Cllr Sarah Bogle said:

“I met with many of the people who use the Zoe Braithwaite centre in December. They made a strong case and I have taken those concerns into account.

“We are engaging people in our communities and other interested groups across the city to see how many of these services can be delivered differently in the longer term. What this proposal does is create some breathing space to work through alternative options. We do recognise these are hard times, and we are trying to mitigate as much as we can.”

Cllr Sally Spicer said:

“I am thrilled that Zoe Braithwaite centre can continue to operate. I’ve campaigned hard on behalf of local residents to keep this service going.

“The final decision will be made on 13th February. We have listened, and we hope that all the Councillors in the city will support the revised proposals. We will continue to lobby the Government to give a fairer deal to this city.”

Other news from Southampton Labour

• Denham highlights persecution of Hazaras in Quetta, Pakistan - 5 February 2013
• Southampton Labour saves Woolston Youth Club's services - 5 February 2013
• Southampton Labour finds breathing space for Newtown Youth Centre - 31 January 2013