Fairer Communities

Your Voice Matters: Have Your Say on Barnsdale Road’s Play Street Plans

Your Voice Matters: Have Your Say on Barnsdale Road’s Play Street Plans

Westminster City Council is inviting residents and local communities to share their thoughts on a proposal to introduce a seasonal Play Street on Barnsdale Road. This would give children more space to play safely and offer a more sociable, people-friendly environment during the warmer months.

What is being proposed

If approved, the Play Street would run every year from 1 April to 30 September, with pedestrian priority and reduced vehicle access at set times:

  • Monday to Friday: 3:00 – 7:30 pm
  • Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 – 7:30 pm

The aim is to create a safer, more active street that encourages outdoor play, reduces through-traffic during key hours, and brings the local community together

Have your say

The Public Consultation  is now open until 11:59 p.m. on 7th September 2025. We will also be running two drop in events where you will have the opportunity to meet members of of the team, ask questions and share your thoughts in person.

  • Barnsdale Road Play Street session on Tuesday 22nd July 2025, 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. 
  • Community event at WECH Community Centre (W9 3AZ) on Friday 22nd August 2025, 10:30 a.m – 1:00 p.m

Children and young people are also welcome to come to these events – their views matter to us as well, so please do bring them along.

If you would like hard copies of the consultation support materials or questionnaire, or require any reasonable adjustments to participate please contact: Westminsterplaystreets@wsp.com

Visit our dedicated page, to learn more about our Active Streets Programme.

Try 3D Art With City Lions At The Bomb Factory!

Try 3D Art With City Lions At The Bomb Factory

Ever wanted to create art you can touch, wear, or even wear? Join City Lions for a FREE taster session of Art in Three Dimensions, led by pro artists Elias Peña Salvador and Lottie Mac!

This hands-on session is perfect for 13–16 year-olds living or studying in Westminster. You’ll experiment with materials to build sculptures, installations, and wearable art—and discover our full 3D art programme launching in September.

Participants will get a sneak peek at the upcoming year-long creative club, leading to an exhibition in June 2026.

City Lion Poster showing a nice room with art

et Stuck In, Build It Up, Show It Off

Dive into the world of 3D art—think beyond pencils and paint!

  • Team up with professional artists to experiment, build, and create.
  • Make new friends while shaping your ideas into something real.
  • And get a taste of the exciting creative club launching this autumn, leading all the way to a public exhibition next summer.

Interested? Spaces are limited and open to Westminster-based teens aged 13–16.
Sign up below to secure your spot at this unique free event!

Questions? Email citylions@westminster.gov.uk

Final Call: Free First Aid Training – Tuesday 15 July

Final Call: Free First Aid Training – Tuesday 15 July

This summer, our Foundation Training Offer has delivered a range of high-quality, FREE courses to help you grow, learn, and lead. From fencing to safeguarding, we’ve supported participants across Westminster to build skills that boost confidence and employability.

Now, there’s just one final in-person course left this summer – and it’s a vital one!

First Aid Training – Final Course of the Summer!

This is your chance to gain essential lifesaving skills that are invaluable for coaching, volunteering, or everyday situations.

When: Next Tuesday 15 July 2025
Time: 9:30am – 4:00pm
Where: North Paddington Youth Club, 229 Lanark Rd, London W9
Who Can Attend: Anyone aged 16+ (registration required in advance)

Don’t miss your chance to sign up!

Online Courses – Learn Anytime, Anywhere

While you wait for our in-person courses to return this October, why not keep developing your knowledge with our flexible online training options?

These online courses are separate from the First Aid training and can be completed at your own pace:

Need Financial Support?

Explore our Bursary Offer to see how we can help you access training opportunities without barriers.

Whether you’re starting your career, supporting your community, or looking to grow, ActiveWestminster is here to support you every step of the way.

Kids Swim For FREE This Summer And So Can Westminster Residents Aged 60+!

Kids Swim For FREE* This Summer And So Can Westminster Residents Aged 60+!

Make a splash this summer with FREE* swimming for children and young people at Westminster City Council leisure centres! It’s the perfect way to stay active, have fun, and cool off during the school holidays and even better when shared with family.

*Terms and conditions apply

Bring the Grandkids – and Join Them in the Pool!

Westminster residents aged 60 and over can also enjoy FREE swimming at all council leisure centres. Whether you’re staying fit, supporting your wellbeing, or just fancy a relaxing swim, it’s completely free and easy to get started.

All you need is an ActiveWestminster Card, which gives discounted access to a range of sport, leisure, and wellbeing benefits across the borough.

Dive into summer fun, fitness, and family time, all for FREE!

Try A Free Recreational Martial Arts Session In The Park!

Try a Free Recreational Martial Arts Session in the Park!

Looking to get active over lunch? Join us for a free recreational martial arts session in Christchurch Gardens on Wednesday 3 July from 1:00–1:45 PM.

This is a fun, informal session open to all abilities — no experience needed! Come along to move, learn some basics, and enjoy being active in a relaxed outdoor setting.

The Benefits of Martial Arts

Martial arts is more than just kicks and punches, it’s a full-body workout that supports both physical and mental wellbeing. Whether you’re new to it or have tried it before, here are some great reasons to give it a go:

  • Improve fitness & flexibility: Build strength, balance, and coordination through dynamic movements.
  • Boost confidence: Martial arts teaches self-discipline and encourages personal growth in a supportive environment.
  • Learn self-defence skills: Pick up practical techniques that promote awareness and safety.
  • Reduce stress: The focus and movement involved can help clear your mind and improve mental wellbeing.
  • Have fun & meet others: Sessions are social, inclusive, and a great way to connect with your local community.

 

What You’ll Need & How to Join

  • What to bring: Water and comfortable exercise clothes
  • Join the WhatsApp group for updates: (+44) 07794 839926

Session Details:

  • Location: Christchurch Gardens, Victoria (Location Pin will be shared at 12:50 PM in the WhatsApp group)
  • Time: 1:00–1:45 PM – Stay for the full session or drop in and out as needed!

Get moving, meet others, and enjoy something new, right in the centre of Westminster.

The Wait Is Over – Get Your Tickets To The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026!


The Ballot Is Now Open For The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026!

Cricket fans, the countdown is on! The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 is coming to England and Wales from 12 June to 5 July 2026, and the public ticket ballot is now open! This is your best opportunity to grab tickets for this global event before they go on general sale. Matches will take place across seven iconic venues, including Lord’sThe Oval, and Edgbaston — with the final set for London’s legendary Lord’s Cricket Ground.

This is more than cricket — it’s a global celebration of women’s sport. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering the game, this is your chance to be part of a major moment in sporting history.

Let’s support the women’s game and be part of an unforgettable summer of sport in 2026!

Key Dates:

  • Ballot Opens: 30 July 2025, 10am BST

  • Ballot Closes: 13 August 2025, 8pm BST
  • Winners Notified By: 16 September 2025
  • Purchase Window: 2–5 October 2025
  • General Sale: Mid-October (if tickets remain)

You can apply for up to six tickets per day via the official ICC website or directly through host venues like Edgbaston or The Utilita Bowl. A ballot entry doesn’t guarantee tickets, but it’s your best chance, especially with some venues offering limited capacity.

Looking for extras? Hospitality packages, priority club memberships, and accessible options are also available.

With 12 top international teams, electrifying matches, and a summer of unforgettable sport ahead — now’s the time to get involved.