North East & Yorkshire Premier Construction

Wrekenton Hub

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Written by Roma Publications

Wrekenton Community

Gateshead Council has unveiled a brand new facility in Wrekenton comprising new housing offices, a community base and a brand new library.

Wrekenton Hub was commissioned by Gateshead Council – in order to provide the ideal venue for council staff, volunteer groups, community groups and members of the public.

The site is located on Old Durham Road and previously contained a number of terraced houses; in light of this minor demolition works were undertaken before works could begin on the construction of the new structure.

Gateshead Council undertook a 12 month planning process where they gained pre-application advice and planning approval. The venue was completed at the end of December last year and was opened for use in March 2015 providing vital facilities for the local community.

The hub building, which is locally listed, has been finished with a red brick external façade, a rendered wall finish and glazed automatic entrance doors. The single storey building also comprises a pitched roof with slate covering; timber framed single glazed windows and a brand new entrance area.

New carpets, suspended ceilings and new lighting have been fitted as have air conditioning systems, new telecommunications, storage shelving and a reception desk. A new library has also been constructed inside the building, which contains security features including CCTV, smoke detectors, fire alarms and secure access.

The building has been fitted with numerous eco-friendly features including an environmentally friendly Ecodan system which provides water and heating, as well as a rainwater harvesting system. The venue has been finished with numerous landscaping features and car parking facilities.

Communities & Environment Construction Services acted as the main contractor on the project after negotiating with Gateshead Council, and coming up with a scheme in accordance with the council’s Commissioning Framework.

Service Director, Council Housing, Design & Technical Services provided the architectural services for the project.

Wrenkenton Housing now has a brand new working facility following their relocation to the Wrenkenton Hub. The housing office worked in their old offices until the 27th March before moving into the new premises, located just a few yards down the road.

The site, which is surrounded by residential and commercial units, has seen 20 staff members working on site every day, as well as a plethora of community and voluntary groups utilising the space.

 

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Roma Publications