Work is starting this week (21 July) to build a new Playzone in Hexham which will be used for a range of sport and physical activities for both adults and children. 

The  PlayZone will be situated on land adjoining the Priory School on Corbridge Road and will open mid-October 2025. 

The new facility will have an all-weather playing surface, fencing and floodlighting to provide a safe, outdoor recreational space that can be used throughout the year. 

The County Council’s Sports Development Team has led on this community project which at present is constructing eight PlayZones right across Northumberland. PlayZones have recently opened in Alnwick, Amble, Ashington, Bedlington and West Wylam with Newbiggin and Cleaswell Hill due to open in the Autumn. 

The  PlayZones in Northumberland have been made possible thanks to grant funding from the Premier League, The FA and Government’s Football Foundation. The council is also contributing over £67k towards the £269k Hexham scheme.   
 

Northumberland County Councillor Wendy Pattison, cabinet member for Culture, Leisure and Tourism said:  

“The county council is busy constructing a number of  PlayZones across Northumberland to help more people of all ages to become active in their own community. Some have already opened, and they are providing really popular, offering a great place for family and friends to meet, to be active and have fun which is so good for everyone’s mental and physical health.” 
 

“I am sure the Hexham  PlayZone will be a popular addition to the local community and its location next to the school is ideal as I am sure it will be very well used by the pupils.” 
 

Ward councillor and Hexham Town Councillor, Suzanne Fairless-Aitken added: 

“The PlayZone will be a fantastic facility, particularly for people in the east end of the town and I am sure it will be welcomed and well used. We will be providing more information on how to book the PlayZone and get involved in September before it opens to the public.” 
 

Louise Burns, Head Teacher at Hexham Priory said: 

 

Hexham Priory School is incredibly grateful for the support from the Football Federation in constructing this facility. Our school will be using it during term time, and then the local community will be able to access it on an evening, weekend and school holidays. This is an amazing resource for the local community, and we are excited about being a part of it. “ 

 

The PlayZone will be managed by Hexham Priory School in partnership with Hexham Town Council. 

If anyone has any questions, please send them to: clerk@hexhamtowncouncil.gov.uk