Byker beacon backed for brighter futures

A new youth and community hub is set to transform opportunities for young people in Byker.

British Engines has signed a ten-year sponsorship agreement with the Lighthouse Project at St Michael’s Church.

Set to open this summer, the centre will offer a broad range of activities and services for up to 1500 young people and families each year.

Alongside financial support, British Engines, which was founded in Byker in 1922 and now employs 1200 people across the world, will offer training and work experience opportunities to young people from the community. 

Alex Lamb, chair at British Engines, said: “The Lighthouse Project’s location is next to where British Engines was originally established as a company and, as a major employer in the North East, we feel a deep-rooted responsibility to give back to the local area.

“We feel privileged to support The Lighthouse Project. 

“We were pleased to contribute funding to develop its physical infrastructure and initial set-up, and we are excited our commitment will extend beyond its launch, with an annual grant that will help sustain its operations and ensure its long-term success.

“We look forward to playing an active role in helping The Lighthouse Project achieve its vision, creating meaningful opportunities for young people and making a positive, lasting impact on the local community.”

The Lighthouse Project will feature a purpose-built youth club annexe, performance and arts spaces, an e-sports suite, music room, outdoor sports area and nature trail. 

It will also house mentoring services, SEN support, wellbeing programmes, homework clubs and a worship space.

The Byker Scout Group and local community partners will also be based at the hub.

Ben Roman, chief executive at The Lighthouse Project, added: “Having the long-term backing of such a well-regarded Newcastle business is a real expression of confidence in our aims and ambitions, and we’re hugely grateful to British Engines for recognising the impact our work will have on its home city.

“Corporate support for our work will be essential in helping us achieve our full potential, and we’re continuing to speak to other North East businesses about how we might help them achieve their community investment aspirations.

“We’re moving closer to being able to share this fantastic new facility with our local community and the wider city, and we’re very excited about the new opportunities  it will deliver for the people of Byker and beyond.”

The £4.2 million redevelopment of St Michael's Church has been funded by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s Youth Investment Fund, with further support from the Lord Crewe Trust and The Squires Foundation. 

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