In May 2021 Brims Construction, following a competitive tendering exercise were successfully appointed to deliver the refurbishment of Newbiggin Sports and Community Centre, the aim of the project was to refurbish and remodel internal elements of the Sports and Community Centre to improve existing facilities and foster community use. Originally opened in November 1973 the existing building consists of a metal clad structure and is joined with a 1980s brick-built community building. The building has received various remodelling works overtime in order to adapt to community needs however the current facilities at the centre are not fit for purpose.
The scheme involved :

• Creation of a new front of house/reception including self-service provisions in line with Active Northumberland Transformation programme;
• Relocation of the library to a more appropriate location and enhance the learning environment;
• Creation of a community café linked to the new library area;
• Creation of improved changing facilities to support a greater number of concurrent sport and leisure activities with specific changing facilities for outdoor sports, targeted to support AFC Newbiggin;
• Provision of a Changing Places facility to improve accessibility and inclusion;
• Improved sports hall flooring;
• Improved squash court provision;
• Provision for a new studio space;
• General refurbishment and redecoration throughout the building;
• Modifications to mechanical and electrical services resulting from remodelling and refurbishment works;
• A new community allotment area to the rear of the centre.

The updated facilities’ aim is to support the health and wellbeing of the local people. The completed project will create the following wider benefits: –

• Improved library facility providing better spaces for reading, studying and working;
• A wider variety of books;
• Improved circulation spaces;
• Improved courtyard area for outdoor activities;
• Providing modern, fit for purpose facilities;
• Enhancing facility user experience through interior design;
• Providing a more inclusive facility for all members of the community;
• Access to a wider number of community lead activities;
• Improved accessibility;
• Enhanced and improved sports provision;
• Enhanced and improved outdoor grass pitches;

The new entrance and reception are now more functional for both staff and centre users – Activator Pods and self serve screens have been included. Improved changing facilities, two of which are located within the new extension on the North elevation and the provision of a changing places room. Refurbishment of sports facilities – Squash courts, studio & gym. Refresh of sports hall flooring. The library includes separate areas for both adults and children, PC stations and work desks with integrated power. Self serve machines are now available for book search. The café area is located directly ahead of the library entrance, which allows seating to be shared. With access from the library the external courtyard is to be used for seating and children’s activities.