The brief

Strategic Leisure was invited by Wallsend Boys Club to complete a Football Foundation application on behalf of the Club. The bid was in relation to the development of new pitch and changing room facilities at Rheydt Avenue a designated site in Wallsend. The Club's vision was to develop new multi-sports facilities, including football pitches and a new pavilion which would incorporate changing rooms, toilets and officials' provision. The development also incorporated the ability to provide additional facilities in the future.

The Boys Club is renowned in football circles for its experience and success in developing quality sportsmen and having a positive affect on the personal development of all its members. The Club has organised youth football in the North Tyneside community since 1938, including 5-aside leagues at the premises at Station Rd, Wallsend, and representative 11 a-side teams based at St. Peters Road, Wallsend. The Club has achieved status as a FA Standard Charter Development Club, and takes great pride in making a positive difference to all associated with the club and the local community. The Club has a glittering past; producing over 60 professional players in the game, including several international players such as Alan Shearer and Peter Beardsley.

The desired outcome of the project was to help secure the future of the Club and to sustain the growth in its development. The facilities would provide the Club with a new home from which to operate and co-ordinate their activities.

Our Approach

Strategic Leisure in partnership with B3 Gibson Hamilton and Sports & Landscape Developments carried out the feasibility study, technical assessments and business planning for the project. The study investigated the viability of the proposed site, assessment of the facility mix, and the production of a Club Development Plan.

Project Outcomes

Strategic Leisure is managed the process of securing Football Foundation funding for £1 million for Wallsend Boys Club which assisted in providing 8 natural turf pitches (senior/junior and a competition pitch) and a pavilion for the site.