New community centre for youth projects could come to Stockton
Last updated 1st May 2025
Buildings will be knocked down and replaced with a new community centre for youth projects under plans being considered by Stockton Council.
The Corner House Youth Project wants to demolish the existing buildings at Arlington Park Sports Centre, Adderley Street, Parkfield, Stockton. It proposes to bring in a new building, erected in a factory off-site, to replace the current red-brick and prefabricated buildings “to uphold the local youth group”.
“This proposal is for a purpose-built 168sqm modular building to replace the existing local community facilities for the Corner House Youth Project,” says a design and access statement by agent Corstorphine & Wright. It says the scheme for a one-storey community centre is intended to “support and enhance the community facilities”.
The agent says, on behalf of the Youth Investment Fund: “As part of a nationwide project, the Youth Investment Fund are looking to improve the existing scout and youth provisions across 28 sites across the country. In order to achieve this the design looks to provide a modular solution that has been adapted and modified to meet the site’s particular needs.”
It says of the existing buildings: “These buildings no longer meet the community’s needs. Replacing them with a new structure would enhance energy efficiency and provide a larger, more versatile space to accommodate all users effectively.”
The site is on the corner of the Bowesfield playing fields, near the Bowesfield and St Cuthbert’s Catholic primary schools and a multi-use sports pitch and has an small utility building and youth hub. The new building will come with cycle parking spaces near the entrance, a small open area with access from the main hall for outdoor activities, and landscaping.
The statement continues: “The building will be single storey with a flat roof. The proposal is to use a modular system that can be preassembled off site.
“As they are built off site within a factory, there is less material waste and also minimal travel for deliveries. The buildings will be all electric, they will use heating via air sourced heat pumps and electric water heater.
“The building facilities have been specifically provided to allow larger groups to use the space. This allows the building to be used for a multitude of activities. This flexibility is through multiple scaled rooms to allow space to various groups.
“The site is conveniently located close to other community facilities and the school meaning they will encourage each other. The design has considered issues of accessibility and security by creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for the community.
“The design is based on a modular construction that can be pre-assembled, reducing waste and build time, minimising any disruption to the surrounding area. It incorporates principles of sustainability and will provide a flexible facility that offers opportunity for social engagement for both youth groups and other community groups.”