The Base is an exciting new youth training and community centre located in the Shard End ward of Birmingham. The project was initiated by the Prince of Wales and developed by the Prince’s Trust and Birmingham City Council.

The design has been developed in close liaison with architects from the Prince’s Foundation. An ‘Enquiry by Design’ event launched the consultation process in May 2004.

The building contains an extensive range of facilities:

• A basement ‘den’ with dance and recording studios

• A ground floor café and cybercafe

• A creche and advice centre

• A suite of training rooms on the upper floors

Local young people will be involved with the construction process, gaining NVQs in craft construction skills in collaboration with local colleges.