Hebburn Town FC looks to score with redevelopment plans

The transformation of the South Tyneside football club follows a £2m government funding package, with plans including a new South Stand, replacing the main pitch with a FIFA Pro-certified artificial version, and a community hub.

Plans have now been submitted for the project, with a decision expected on 9 March next year.

If approved, the new South Stand will contain modern changing rooms, office facilities, a gym, a club shop, and a flexible function room area to be used as conference facilities and classrooms.

The Hornets’ second training pitch will also be replaced with state-of-the-art 3G pitches, and new floodlights will be installed.

There are also plans to extend The Sportsy Bar below the current balcony area to increase the venue’s match day capacity, incorporate a dedicated stage area for performers, and allow for a more spacious and comfortable area for families.

New vehicular access via South Drive and a new main pedestrian access focal point via Victoria Road are also planned together with extra car parking spaces.

Sean Hedley, managing director of North East-based Hedley Planning, who is overseeing the planning submission, said redevelopment will benefit both the football club and the local community: “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.”