Community hub kicks off in Middlesbrough

A new sports and leisure hub is taking shape in Middlesbrough.

The Southlands Community and Sports Hub is being developed on the former Southlands Centre site in Park End, with the first visitors recently welcomed to see construction progress.

Led by Middlesbrough Council in partnership with Middlesbrough Football Club Foundation, the project has secured a £100,000 grant from the Sky Bet EFL Building Foundations Fund, alongside Government support.

Former footballer and broadcaster Chris Kamara, who grew up in the area, joined Middlesbrough mayor Chris Cooke and Foundation head Charlotte Dinsdale at the visit.

Officials say the hub will provide modern facilities for grassroots football, mentoring, youth programmes and employability training, becoming a central resource for the wider East Middlesbrough community.

They add it forms part of the Building Foundations Fund’s wider mission to strengthen communities through sport, education and social engagement.

Mayor Cooke said: “It's fantastic to see the progress being made on site, and it was great to welcome Chris back to an area he knows so well. 

“This will be a brilliant venue for our town and we're excited to partner with Middlesbrough Football Club Foundation to help create the facilities and opportunities that local people deserve.”

Chris added: “Growing up in Park End, I know first-hand how much this community loves its sport and deserves top-class facilities. 

“Seeing the Southlands Hub take shape is emotional and exciting – it’s going to be a game-changer for people here.”

Charlotte added: “The Southlands Hub is more than just bricks and mortar, it’s a commitment to the future of East Middlesbrough. 

“It will be a place where young people can learn, grow and thrive. 

“We’re thrilled to be delivering real change for the community.”

The first phase includes a new building with meeting rooms, a social area, upgraded 3G and grass pitches, and open spaces for sport and recreation. 

A second phase is planned to deliver further enhancements, with the Southlands Hub scheduled to open in summer 2026.

Kieran Forde, Sky Bet head of sponsorship and brand, added: “We’re incredibly proud to support the Southlands Community and Sports Hub.

“This project reflects everything the fund stands for – empowering communities, creating opportunities and using sport as a force for good. 

“This visit shows just how impactful this development will be for Middlesbrough.”

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