'Next Gen' Youth Hub Opens in Roehampton
Offering indoor and outdoor activities for a range of age groups
Young people with Cllr Gasser (centre) at the opening. Picture: Wandsworth Council
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February 20, 2026
A vibrant new youth hub in Roehampton has officially opened, with the aim of offering children and young people a safe, inclusive space to play, connect and explore their creativity. The facility, named ‘Next Gen’ by local young people, was launched on 19 February and is designed to support wellbeing, personal growth and community inclusion.
The hub builds on the success of the Roehampton Family Hub, which opened in October 2024, and expands the range of services available to residents aged 5 to 25, including those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
Developed in collaboration with young people, staff teams and community partners, Next Gen offers a wide variety of activities tailored to different age groups. Younger children can enjoy play sessions and creative workshops, while older students have access to distraction‑free study spaces and opportunities to develop musical skills. The hub also supports the borough’s wider cultural ambitions as part of its London Borough of Culture programme.
Outside, a refurbished play area provides space for basketball, table tennis, arts and crafts, and socialising. A dedicated ‘chill and chat’ zone features a calming sensory garden designed to support emotional wellbeing.
The launch event welcomed the Youth Mayor, Deputy Youth Mayor, and local councillors, with speeches delivered by the young mayoral team. Attendees explored the full range of activities on offer, including SEN sessions, play rangers and creative workshops.
Judi Gasser, Cabinet Member for Children, said the hub reflects the council’s long‑term commitment to young people.
“This fantastic new space reflects our commitment to making Wandsworth the best place for children to grow up,” she said. “It was shaped by our young people themselves and is all about play, creativity and inclusion. As part of our Year of Play, we are proud to invest in spaces like ‘Next Gen’, where every child and young person feels welcome, supported and has a space to play.”
Wandsworth Council will continue working with families, schools and community partners to ensure the hub delivers lasting opportunities for Roehampton’s young people.
More information, including opening times and activity schedules, is available via the Roehampton Family Hub website.
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