Work begins to create new eco-building in Newcastle’s West End

Work has begun to create a new eco-building at an award-winning community garden and wildlife site in Newcastle.

Scotswood Natural Community Garden has been awarded £150,000 by the North East Local Enterprise Partnership (North East LEP) from its Local Growth Fund VCSE Capital Grant programme towards the construction of its new eco-building, which will allow more people in Newcastle’s West End to take part in its nature-based programmes.

Farah Kurji, development manager at Scotswood Natural Community Garden, explained: “Before the pandemic, we already supported more than 3,000 people a year through environmental workshops, volunteering opportunities, nature-based youth groups and community work.

“We know that many of our participants were disproportionately affected by COVID-19, and demand for our services has increased since, but our lack of indoor space has been limiting our ability to meet this demand.”

The creation of the new building, which is designed by North Tyneside architects, Brightblue Studio, will triple the indoor space at the site, adding a classroom, training kitchen, indoor toilets, office and community meeting space.

The design incorporates shipping containers donated by Newcastle College, and uses sustainable materials and innovative technologies to reduce its carbon footprint, with the aim of running at net zero carbon emissions.

The containers are being moved into position and work will begin on construction and fit-out of the building.

Helen Golightly OBE, chief executive of the North East LEP, commented: “By adding to its facilities, Scotswood Natural Community Garden is securing its long-term future and enabling more people to experience the health and wellbeing benefits of being in nature and learning new skills through the many volunteering and training opportunities on site.

“Again, we’re seeing what a vital role voluntary and community organisations like this play in building stronger, more sustainable communities in our region and I’m pleased we have been able to support this project.”

By Mark Adair – Correspondent, Bdaily