Foundation laid for new sports hub
NEWCASTLE United Foundation’s vision of building a state-ofthe-art community hub for education, sports and wellbeing a goal kick away from St. James’ Park has been given the greenlight.
The charity’s move to a new home has been years in the making in a bid to create an accessible and inclusive facility, providing the perfect space for learning, recreation, exercise and community work.
The three-story hub includes a spectacular 4G rooftop pitch offering views of St. James’ Park, innovative classrooms, a hightech digital hub, four-court sports hall, a smart fitness suite and accessible changing areas, event and meeting spaces and openplan offices.
The Foundation’s vision is being brought to life by Newcastlebased Ryder Architecture, their innovative designs set to transform the former site of Murray House community centre in Newcastle’s West End.
Ryder was appointed to produce detailed proposals for the build after the Foundation received a significant £2.6m investment from the North of Tyne Combined Authority to transform the way young people transition from education to the world of work via the ambitious NU Futures scheme to be delivered in the hub.
Sarah Medcalf, Deputy Head of Newcastle United Foundation, said: “We are delighted planning permissions has been granted and all our efforts are now focused on creating a building which will serve the community for generations to come.
“The generous contributions we have received so far will support the Foundation’s missions to build our new home.
“It will become a hub promoting excellence in education, pathways into employment and the physical and mental wellbeing of participants of all ages and abilities.”
She added: “Ryder has provided an excellent service throughout the planning process and I would like to thank the project team for their professionalism, knowledge and support in reaching this important milestone.”
Developers expect construction to begin on the project in the autumn with the hub’s doors opening to the public in the autumn of 2021.
For information on how to support the project, contact sarah.medcalf@nufc.co.uk.