A recently refurbished community hub for young people in Southall has received one of Ealing’s highest design accolades.

Ealing Council’s Young Adult Centre (YAC) was awarded the Full Design Award at the Ealing Civic Society Annual Awards 2025 on Tuesday, 21 October 2025.

This top honour has not been presented in more than three years, with Pitshanger Manor being the last recipient — placing the Southall centre in distinguished company.

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Each year, the Ealing Civic Society celebrates outstanding design and preservation projects that enhance the borough’s seven towns. Winners are recognised with both a certificate and a plaque for display.

Originally opened in 1998, the YAC was once earmarked by Ealing Council for demolition to make way for “much-needed housing.” However, residents, youth groups, and community leaders strongly opposed the plan, arguing that the centre provided vital support and opportunities for young people in Southall.

Their campaign to save the YAC gathered widespread backing — and ultimately forced the council to invest in renewal rather than replacement. The result was a £2.4 million transformation in 2024, shaped by the very young people who use the facility.

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The upgraded building now features a modern gym, an accessible training kitchen, a new mezzanine for ICT and crafts, better insulation and ventilation, and improved signage and accessibility through a new lift.

The centre’s energy rating has risen dramatically from F to A, thanks to the installation of new windows, doors, and an air-source heat pump, along with upgraded fire alarm and CCTV systems.

Young people, staff, and visitors were involved throughout the redesign process, ensuring the new space truly meets the community’s needs. The award plaque and certificate will be displayed proudly in the centre’s reception.

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Councillor Josh Blacker, Ealing Council’s cabinet member for a fairer start, said::

This shows what’s possible when we invest in places that matter. The Young Adult Centre is now a space where young people can feel proud, supported and inspired.

Just one example of the great work being done at the YAC is its use by local schools for children who might otherwise be excluded. To have an award-winning location for this and other activities for young people is a real asset to the local area.

Photo: Ealing Council