The developers behind the proposed Golf Centre at Centurion Park, Wallsend have committed to a programme of local employment and the development of a PGA Golf Academy to encourage and train local players as an integral part of the £13.5m project.
Phil Harrison, one of the most respected PGA club professionals in the country and Director of HG&L, Newcastle Ltd, who are currently applying for Planning Permission for the innovative Centurion Golf Centre at Wallsend, commented, “We’re obviously awaiting the decision of the North Tyneside Planning Committee, which will hopefully be before the end of the year, but have been using the intervening period to firm up our vison for the Golf Centre and, particularly how the Academy will integrate with what will become a very popular facility for both serious golfers and those who have limited or no previous experience of the game.” “Central to this will be our commitment to local employment with the provision of some 100 full and part time jobs with a full apprentice and training programme for young people in a variety of roles. We will also be looking to develop a local supply chain wherever possible and this will include the initial construction phase by local contractors. Robertson Construction, who have estimated up to 60 jobs will be provided during the construction phase.” The proposed Centre will contain a sports bar and restaurant, three fully serviced function rooms, a 70 sq m fully fitted indoor games room, a professional golf shop selling both equipment and clothing with club fitting by professionals supported by premium golf brands, together with kitchen areas and offices. Phil Harrison continued, “The food and beverage side will obviously be a major employer and will be run by my fellow Director, Chris Sanderson, whose experienced team already runs both bars and hotels in the region. But, as a professional golfer, it is the Academy that excites me the most as this is the future of golf – taking young players and developing their skills.” “We intend to create the finest, most exciting and enjoyable school for golfers of all ages and abilities. Led by one of the finest golf professionals in the North, a team of coaches will support all golfers from entry level to those seeking a career in golf and performing on the professional circuits. The coaches will seek out young golfers who have the potential and natural talents to develop into serious players, offering the possibility of joining the Academy’s scholarship programme, with a strong emphasis on inspiring girls and women to take up golf.” The Centre, in addition to promoting golf, will combine with local sports clubs, schools, the local authority and other associations, in devising joint programmes in pursuit of a fitter and healthier community consistent with Sport England’s mission to build an active nation. “At the heart of the facility will be the new Centurion Golf Centre combining the facilities of a traditional driving range with state-of-the-art virtual reality digital technology. The advanced digital technology tracking equipment transposes players’ shots onto digital screens which can show a number of virtual reality games or a selection of world-renowned golf courses.” “The idea is to offer something for everyone ranging from families and complete beginners to low handicap golfers who wish to improve their game. The combination of the range and the reconfigured course will attract new players and enable them to experience the game at their own level.” Upon a successful application, construction could begin early next year allowing the facility to open at Centurion Park in Winter 2021 or early 2022.