Easter U-Choose Project to launch in Andover for teenagers

Andover Town Council's U-Choose Project will run from March 30 to April 10 during the Easter break, offering 11 to 16-year-olds access to affordable activities at venues such as Andover Leisure Centre and Riverside Bowl.

The scheme was discussed at a recent meeting of the town council’s community and events committee, where it was confirmed that planning was well under way, with school engagement and service access agreements being finalised.

Katherine Bird, councillor and chairman of the committee, said: "It is such a good thing and I am so happy we have managed to get it to this stage."

The U-Choose Project aims to reduce anti-social behaviour by providing structured, meaningful activities during the school holidays.

It also supports physical activity and helps young people build confidence and social skills.

Tor Warburton, town clerk, said: "It's really positive that the schools are getting back to responding and starting today (February 25) it is out to the parents.

"We have to take a minute to thank the officers who are doing an amazing job of driving this forward.

"Following the feedback, there is a slight adjustment to be made so they will be printed out by the end of the week."

The project is also designed to ease financial pressures on families by offering affordable opportunities for young people to stay active, engaged, and entertained during the school break.

Officers have already held meetings with activity venues and are set to meet with the town’s secondary schools.

U-Choose cards have been designed and will be printed in early March, with service access agreements due to be signed around the same time.