It’s fun to stay at the (new) YMCA

Wimbledon YMCA launched its ambitious development plans over the weekend, outlining its vision to create a new, high-quality building complex designed by Rogers Stirk on its existing Wimbledon Broadway site.

The key to generating the £15m needed to invest in a new state of the art, multi-functional YMCA and community building, is to use part of the site to build 140 new homes alongside the new facility.

The full details of the development are at http://www.ymca-hereforgood.co.uk and they include an open public piazza as well as a residential building that is 24 stories at its highest point.

The truth is that Wimbledon needs to see investment in its built environment which, from many aspects, currently looks very tired and disjointed.  A dramatic new building, providing interesting and high quality community space in an area of the town that frankly needs a facelift, is a very welcome development in my view.

Investment of this nature, provided it is done sensitively and with proper thought for appropriate infrastructure, will help ensure a vibrant future for Wimbledon as the premier location of choice in SW London for businesses, families and individuals.

Why not comment if you have views on the YMCA plans or other aspects of Wimbledon's buildings.