Government Gives Green Light for New Southlands Centre Development

The construction of a new sports centre can now commence following government approval for its development. This facility, named the Southlands Centre, is planned for Middlesbrough, situated on Ormesby Road at the location of a previous leisure centre. Although planning permission was initially granted in September, the Secretary of State for Communities, Angela Rayner, was required to endorse several technical aspects concerning the site’s configuration. The project has now received final authorization, enabling the Middlesbrough FC Foundation to relocate its main offices to the new structure. Middlesbrough mayor Chris Cooke characterized the charity as the “perfect partner” for this initiative. “I can’t wait to see spades in the ground at the new Southlands Centre – it’s going to be transformative for East Middlesbrough and a facility that the entire town will benefit from,” he said. He added, “It will help our residents improve their physical and mental health, which is one of my key priorities for Middlesbrough.” The Middlesbrough FC Foundation is slated to operate the centre and plans to transfer its personnel from its existing headquarters at Riverside Stadium. A tender process has been initiated to secure a contractor, with the council anticipating construction to commence next year. The project includes upgrades to the existing 3G and grass football pitches, alongside the creation of a new open space designated for further physical activities. According to the council, a subsequent phase of the scheme might involve additional extensions to the site. Theo Furness, the council’s executive member for development, expressed his conviction that the “top-class facility” would motivate individuals to “live healthy, active lives.” “Football is incredibly important to so many people in our town, so it’s a real boost for East Middlesbrough that the Middlesbrough FC Foundation will be moving to the new Southlands site,” he said. Follow BBC Tees on X, Facebook, Nextdoor and Instagram. Send your story ideas to northeastandcumbria@bbc.co.uk.Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.