A partnership of local groups has been selected to buy and reopen the Byker Community Centre and its bowling green, which have been closed since the pandemic. The project has received support from the lottery-backed Platform Places scheme.
Groups Unite to Revive the Centre
Foundation Futures, Northern Cultural Projects and Big River Bakery have worked together on the bid, with help from Platform Places, a project that aims to bring derelict properties near underused high streets back into use. Byker is one of five places chosen for an England-wide pilot.
The centre dates back to 1928, and the bowling green pavilion is a listed building. The plan is to give the site long-term social, economic and environmental value for Byker.
Preferred Operator Announced
Big River Bakery director Andy Haddon said: "After a 16 month-competitive selection process I am very pleased to be able to announce that we have been selected as the preferred operator and we are currently in a process of consulting with community, funders and partners to revise our initial proposals. Alongside that work we are developing more detailed architect plans for the renovation works."
Coun Rob Austin, Newcastle City Council cabinet member for culture, communities and youth services, said: "As a cabinet, we are delighted that Byker Community Centre will be re-opening, with local people and business at the heart of what I hope will be a huge success. The building has stood empty for too long and I am delighted that cabinet, officers and ward councillors have been able to work together to ensure the views of our communities have helped shape how we move forward."
Community Partnership Praised
Madeleine Blyth, co-director at Platform Places, said: "This is a brilliant achievement for the local organisations and residents who have come together to shape the future of Byker Community Centre. It demonstrates what's possible when communities have the time, resources and support to build partnerships around the high streets and buildings that matter to them.
"This is at the heart of our Local Property Partnerships programme, funded by The National Lottery Community Fund. We're excited to see this much-loved community space brought back to life, with the people of Byker at the heart of its future."
The groups are now consulting with the community, funders and partners to revise their initial proposals and develop detailed architectural plans for the renovation works.
