Football club kicks off redevelopment plans

A South Tyneside football club is set to transform its facilities after submitting a planning application linked to a £2 million Government funding package.

Hebburn Town FC has lodged plans for a major redevelopment as part of its Community Hub Project, including replacing its main pitch with a new FIFA Pro-certified surface and adding a second 3G training pitch with upgraded floodlighting. 

The club is also proposing a new South Stand featuring modern changing rooms, office space, a gym, club shop and a flexible function room for conferences and community use.

Further improvements include converting an existing building into a multi-use community hub, creating space for wellbeing sessions, group activities and local events. 

Plans also outline an expansion of The Sportsy Bar to increase match-day capacity and introduce a performance area, alongside new vehicular and pedestrian access points and additional parking.

Sean Hedley, managing director of North East planning specialist Hedley Planning, who is overseeing the planning submission, said: “These are fantastic plans for a club which serves thousands of people in the local area and is woven into the fabric of the local community. 

“This proposal is a collaboration with the Football Foundation, who will be delivering the 3G training pitch on site.

“Expansion of the football club not only represents a significant milestone in the club’s sporting success and on-going growth, but also a socio-economic commitment to the people of Hebburn and the wider borough of South Tyneside.”

The planning submission follows the confirmation of £2 million in Government support earlier this year. 

A decision is expected on March 9.

Hebburn Town FC currently delivers six community programmes for more than 9000 local people and provides football opportunities for over 1000 adult and youth players, generating more than £3.1 million in social value each year.

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