Landmark Craven Park development nears completion
THE construction of the £8m stand and new Training & Enterprise Centre at MS3 Craven Park is nearing completion.
The new development in east Hull will include a training facility equipped with technology for IT, business and engineering courses and apprenticeships, 2,600 seats, 10 corporate boxes, conferencing facilities available for 260 delegates with two bars and full catering for exhibitions, parties and ceremonies.
The project has been jointly funded by Hull City Council and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the building was designed by NPS Humber Property Consultants, who also managed the construction phase.
Hull Training and Adult Education and Hull Kingston Rovers will now open up the centre to the community for a range of uses.
Hull Training and Adult Education will use the building’s technology equipment to deliver a variety of IT, business and courses and programmes, focusing on apprenticeships in the graphic arts, business and IT areas. New higher level qualifications and community learning will also be delivered.
Phil Watkin, centre manager at Hull Training and Adult Education Business Academy, said: “The Craven Park Training and Enterprise Centre is going through its finishing touches in readiness for its opening. We look forward to welcoming learners and business to this landmark building that will benefit the city for many years to come.
“The state-of-the-art flagship centre provides an inspiring learning environment. Its contemporary design offers adaptability in layout and function, reflecting a modern approach to education for the 21st century and supporting Hull Trainings unique approach to apprenticeship delivery.
“This first class facility will be equipped with the latest technology for engineering, IT, business and will complement the innovative classroom design that will provide an exceptional learning experience.”
Mike Smith, Hull KR chief executive, added: “The opening of the new KC North Stand will be a real milestone in Hull Kingston Rovers’ history. It will allow us to provide fans, sponsors, players, staff, local business and the wider local community with fantastic new facilities and help us to move to the next level in our off the field activities.
“It is an exciting time for the club and I would like to go on record in thanking everyone who has helped achieve the realisation of this project. We want this stand, and everything it features, to become a real community hub that is in use seven days a week.”
Jason Papprill, chief executive of main building contractor, Hobson & Porter, said the firm is “delighted” to be involved in such a “landmark project” for east Hull and the city in general.
He said: “This scheme has been many years in the making and it will be good to see the impact it has on the area following the significant contribution to the local economy and local jobs during the construction phase. Not only will this be a welcome addition to the local sports team but also to training and new businesses within Hull and East Yorkshire.”
