Tamworth Regional Council youth services co-ordinator Steve Blanch said the two-day forum, which began yesterday, was one of several ways young people were being given the opportunity to get involved in the planning and decision-making of the new youth centre, which started construction at Coledale last month.

“‘It is essential that young people have the opportunity to participate,” he said.

“It’s about ownership and involvement.”

Discussions at the forum include the design of the youth centre and adjoining skate park, proposed youth art projects, activities and programs and the Tamworth regional youth centre reference group.

Representatives from agencies and services working with young people are also being encouraged to attend the forum, which will take place at The Youthie on the corner of Darling and Peel streets from 10am to 2pm.

The new state-of-the-art facility will include two education rooms as well as a shower and laundry for “on-site practical support”, Mr Blanch said.

“We’ll continue to do arts and music and recreational-type activities and try to enhance the support for that smaller group that needs extra assistance.”

Applications to join the youth centre reference group to provide a local “youth voice” are open to anyone aged 12 to 18 until April 23.

The forum forms part of Youth Week 2014, a 10-day celebration of young people in communities across Australia from April 4 to 13.