11th November 2026
Construction of the new Thame Community & Youth Centre is set to begin on Monday 16 November 2026, following the signing of the building contract by Thame Mayor Cllr Andy Gilbert and Deputy Mayor Cllr Andy Wainwright.
The signing marks a major milestone for the project, with building work scheduled to begin at Southern Road Recreation Ground and expected to be completed in early 2028.
Thame Town Council has confirmed that letters have been sent to neighbouring residents informing them of the upcoming construction work.
Car Park and Play Area to Close During Construction
During the building period, the car park at Southern Road Recreation Ground and the play area will be closed.
However, the Scout Hut and running track will remain open throughout construction.
Over £5 Million Secured for the Project
More than £5 million has already been secured towards the new Thame Community & Youth Centre, with a further £360,000 still needed to complete the fundraising target.
Thame Town Council is encouraging residents, businesses and community groups to support the project through donations, sponsorship and fundraising activities.
A number of fundraising opportunities are available, including the Buy a Brick initiative, which allows supporters to make donations of between £50 and £150 in return for having their names recognised within the building in bronze, silver or gold.
Those interested can complete the Buy a Brick form or visit the Information Centre.
Corporate sponsorship packages are also available, with businesses and organisations able to become Advocate, Visionary or Inspirational Sponsors. Further details are available in the Donor Prospectus.
Individuals and organisations can also contribute materials, furniture, time or connections to potential donors. Anyone wishing to offer this type of support can complete the volunteer and support form.
New Charitable Organisation Established to Run the Centre
A Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), named Thame Community Budling Trust, has been established to manage the new facility.
The organisation will lease the Community & Youth Centre from Thame Town Council and will be responsible for managing and operating the building for the benefit of the community.
Fundraising Pin Badges Launched
As part of the fundraising campaign, exclusive Community & Youth Centre pin badges have been introduced.
Anyone making a donation, regardless of the amount, is entitled to receive a badge.
The badges are available from the Information Centre, at fundraising events and during Mayor on the Market Tuesdays.
Supporters are also being encouraged to share photographs of themselves wearing their badges on Facebook or Instagram using the hashtag #thamecommunityandyouthcentre, with photographs featuring on the project's social media channels.
Fundraising Music Event Planned for December
A fundraising event called The Sound Room will take place at Thame Town Hall on Saturday 5 December 2026.
The event will feature a day of local music, with young people transforming the Town Hall into a live music venue to raise money for the Community & Youth Centre.
How to Support the Project
Residents and businesses wishing to contribute can make donations online or through Thame Town Hall.
Further information about the project, fundraising opportunities and ways to get involved is available through the Thame Community & Youth Centre webpage.
