We’re delighted with the news that planning permission for our new Southlands Centre has been approved.
We will now work closely with Middlesbrough Council to deliver the new centre and support the local community while progressing the funding requirements needed for the project.
Middlesbrough Council’s Executive will next week be asked to vote on finalising a lease agreement with us which would see relocate our headquarters and run the new site in East Middlesbrough.
The Ormesby Road scheme was given the green light by members of the Council’s planning committee in September, but its decision needed a final rubber stamp from government.
Middlesbrough Council have now received confirmation from Angela Rayner, Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, that it can go ahead after technical issues relating to site layout were resolved.
A tender process to appoint a contractor for the project is now underway, with hopes that work on the site, that will include a sports centre and be a top-class community facility, could begin early in the New Year, providing a big boost to East Middlesbrough.
The development’s first phase will see the construction of a new hub to be operated by the Foundation. The current 3G and grass football pitches will be upgraded, and open space provided to support additional physical activities.
A second phase of the scheme could see further extensions and improvements to the site.
Mayor Chris Cooke is delighted to see the project finally moving forward.
He said: “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.
“MFC Foundation is the perfect partner and I am looking forward to working with them on what is an exciting and ambitious project.
“It will help our residents improve their physical and mental health, which is one of my key priorities for Middlesbrough.”
Cllr Theo Furness, Executive Member for Development, said: “Football is incredibly important to so many people in our town, so it’s a real boost for East Middlesbrough that Middlesbrough FC Foundation will be moving to the new Southlands site.
“I know that this type of top-class facility will have a huge impact and help to inspire the next generation to live healthy, active lives.”
The revamped Southlands will host other sports and physical activity as well as football, with grassroots clubs and community organisations using the site.
Inside the hub, community rooms, a classroom, a meeting room and a social area will host training workshops, employability courses, education, mentoring and social sessions.