A new state of the art sports hall has been officially opened at Harris Academy by guest of honour Councillor Tony Belton.
Built by Dean Street Developments as part of the Section 106 contribution linked to the development at 3 Culvert Road, the new sports hall consists of a 4 court system, with motorised basketball hoops allowing for multi-purpose activities. The development also includes an annexe linking the old and new buildings, incorporating new class rooms, air conditioned fitness suites, and new changing room facilities along with providing DDA compliance for all users of the facility.
The school’s previous sports hall facilities and swimming pool were decommissioned several years ago leaving a generation of students to progress through the school with no facilities.
Expressing his delight at the new facility, Cllr Belton, one of the local ward councillors and Chair of the Planning Applications committee, said
“After many years of frustration, the new sports hall is now a reality. It has been worth the wait. It is a tremendous building which will enhance the lives of the pupils of Harris Academy as well as the wider community. At a time when there is so much debate about the well-being of young people and their mental health, this wonderful facility will help their bodies as well as their minds. I pay tribute to Adi Hodzic who has been the driving force behind this major project. Without his enthusiasm and personal commitment, it wouldn’t have happened!”
Adi Hodzic, MD of Dean Street Developments, commented,
“A few years ago, I made a personal commitment to Tony Belton that I would deliver this much needed local project and invite him to the official opening. I am delighted to have kept my promise. Working with Tony has been an inspiration!”
