theSPACE NORTH BERWICK

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Looking Back

theSPACE NORTH BERWICK

From 2011 to 2015, theSpace North Berwick transformed a disused golf factory in East Lothian into a vibrant, youth-led community hub. Powered by young people for everyone, it fostered creativity, skills, and connections, proving the power of ‘Youth in Community.’ Though it closed after its lease ended, its impact lives on, inspiring projects like theSpace Dunbar. Discover the story of this groundbreaking space that changed lives and built resilience.

WHAT WAS
theSPACE NB?

Nestled in North Berwick, East Lothian, theSpace NB was a pioneering social enterprise run by Uprising East Lothian (Now theSPACE Scotland CIC). It began as an extension of earlier youth initiatives like Phantassie Sound (2006-2011) and Phantassie Skatepark (summers 2009-2010), evolving into a multi-activity hub in a leased old Ben Sayers factory. Open from 2011 to 2015, it was a bold, chaotic, and heartfelt space designed to empower young people while serving the whole community. With limited resources but endless energy, it created opportunities for action, learning, and fun, welcoming over 3,800 young people through its doors. It emphasised inclusivity, social purpose, and community cohesion, challenging the idea of youth as a separate group.

The Legacy That Endures

Though the lease ended in 2015 and the site was sold, despite efforts to relocate, the dream didn’t die. TheSpace NB’s success as one of East Lothian’s most loved youth spaces inspired theSpace Scotland CIC and ongoing projects like theSpace Dunbar. Many original team members remain involved, carrying forward lessons in sustainability, youth empowerment, and community wealth-building. Today, its spirit fuels new ventures, proving that with heart and determination, temporary spaces can create lasting change.

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