Virtual street to teach dangers of gangs, drugs and paedophiles

Sutton LBC is to spend £4M on a virtual street to help children learn about the dangers of gangs drugs and paedophiles. 

The councils says that the 'Life Centre' will be a national first with community facilities for local people of all ages and a unique learning centre for schoolchildren.

It has been developed in response to residents calls for more youth facilities in Sutton, and in particular services that help young people play a positive role in the community.

Sutton says that young people are particularly vulnerable during a recession and the flexible centre will be used to help them find jobs or training and prevent long-term unemployment.

Cllr Graham Tope, Executive Member for Community Safety on Sutton Council, said:

'Opinion polls have shown us that local people want more facilities for young people in Sutton and especially services that will help them lead active and positive lives.

'In a recession it’s increasingly important that young people get the help they need to stay safe and be confident about their place in the community.

'The Life Centre will deliver this alongside a range of new facilities for local people. It is about investing in our young people now and in the future.'

It is hoped the hi-tech facilities will appeal to older children and be used to tackle issues such as anti-social behaviour.

David Watkins is the Principal at Carshalton College, Sutton’s further education provider. He said:

'The Life Centre is an innovative project and one that we are very keen to support. I think it will have a really positive impact on young people.

'It will help them better understand their place in society and we are very enthusiastic to take part in its development and take advantage of the services it will offer.'

The £8.3M project will be funded between the National Lottery and the Council