A multi-purpose community hub for Catterick Garrison is a step closer to opening its doors, with backing being sought for plans to run the facility when it welcomes its first visitors next year.
The Community and Enterprise Building aims to bring a wide range of benefits to local people, from business start-ups and job training to community events and support for military families.
The building, due to open in February 2027, is a key part of the wider regeneration of the town centre.
We submitted a bid along with the Ministry of Defence (MoD) in 2022 to the Government for funding to redevelop the town centre.
A total of £19 million was later awarded through the Levelling Up Fund, now known as the Local Regeneration Fund, with the remaining £2 million of match-funding coming from the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) and the authority.
As well as community facilities, the project includes improvements to walking and cycling routes, public spaces and nearby Coronation Park.
Now in a significant step forward for the project, members of our executive will be asked at their meeting on 15 September to support plans for the us to run the new hub, helping to ensure it delivers long-term benefits for residents, businesses and community groups.
Executive member for open to business, Cllr Mark Crane, said: “This exciting new facility has the potential to become a focal point for the community and play an important role in the future of Catterick Garrison.
“It will provide opportunities for local businesses to grow, help people develop new skills, host community events and activities, and create a welcoming space for residents and visitors alike.
"We want this building to be a place that brings people together and supports the continued growth and development of the town.
“The proposals for us as a council to run the centre will be considered carefully by the executive to ensure that there is the very best value for our taxpayers.”
The building will provide flexible business space, offices, retail units, training facilities, event space and a community kitchen, creating a central place for people to meet, learn, work and access support.
It will also bring services together under one roof, including a partnership with the Army's HIVE information service to support both military personnel and civilian residents.
A review found that running the facility in-house is expected to cost approximately £120,000 less each year than alternative arrangements and would provide the greatest benefits for the community while offering the best value for money.
An assessment of the area highlighted a shortage of modern business accommodation, flexible event space and high-quality community facilities.
Cllr Crane added: “This building has been designed to meet those needs while creating new opportunities for learning, enterprise and community activity.
“Alongside the other improvements being delivered through the regeneration programme, it will help create a vibrant town centre that people can be proud of.”
Anyone wishing to find out more is encouraged to contact the council via estatesteam@northyorks.gov.uk to discuss their requirements and the opportunities available.
The report to the executive can be viewed or downloaded as a PDF here.