Bold claim: a fresh heartbeat for Hexham’s community—the new PlayZone is open and ready to transform how locals move, gather, and play. But here’s where it gets controversial: is one facility enough to meaningfully boost physical activity across all ages, or should communities pair such spaces with broader programs? Let’s unpack what this opener really means, what it offers, and what’s still up for discussion.
A sparkling addition to Hexham, the PlayZone debuts as a versatile, all-weather outdoor playing surface enclosed by fencing and illuminated with floodlights. This setup ensures safe, year-round access to sports and recreational activities for both adults and children, regardless of the weather. The site sits adjacent to Priory School on Corbridge Road and will be in use by the school during term time, with evenings, weekends, and school holidays opening to the wider community.
Administration and partnership: the PlayZone is being developed through close collaboration between Northumberland County Council and local communities, with management entrusted to Hexham Priory School in partnership with Hexham Town Council.
Booking and involvement: those interested in reserving the facility or participating in its ongoing operations can contact the Priory School office at 01434 506021.
A milestone for Northumberland, this playspace marks the eighth PlayZone funded and constructed by the county council. Other recently opened sites include locations in Alnwick, Amble, Ashington, Bedlington, West Wylam, Newbiggin, and Choppington.
Funding backbone: the PlayZone program is supported by a mix of sources—grant support from the Premier League, The FA, and the Government’s Football Foundation, alongside contributions from Northumberland County Council and the local community. The overarching goal is to cultivate outdoor spaces that encourage residents to lead more active lives within their neighborhoods.
Financial note: Northumberland County Council contributed more than £67,000 toward Hexham’s £269,000 project.
Voices from the ground:
- Councillor Wendy Pattison, cabinet member for Culture, Leisure and Tourism, highlighted that PlayZones across the county are expanding opportunities for people of all ages to stay active within their own communities. She noted the spaces’ popularity as places where families and friends can meet, exercise, and enjoy themselves—benefits for both mental and physical health.
- Councillor Suzanne Fairless-Aitken, representing Hexham, emphasized the PlayZone’s value for residents on the town’s eastern side. She observed strong usage by locals and students and noted the facility’s versatility for sports like football, netball, basketball, and general fitness.
- Louise Burns, Head Teacher at Hexham Priory School, expressed gratitude for the backing from the Football Foundation, Northumberland County Council, and Hexham Town Council, underscoring how the project serves both school needs and the wider community.
What this means for you: the PlayZone offers an accessible, safe venue for casual and organized activity across seasons, with potential knock-on benefits such as increased community cohesion, better mental health due to regular physical activity, and a clearer pathway for local groups to host matches, clinics, and fitness sessions. As interest grows, consider how you and your family might integrate this space into your routine—and what partnerships or programs could maximize its impact.
Question to spark discussion: do standalone community facilities like this truly move the needle on public health, or should we pair them with structured programming and outreach to ensure sustained usage and inclusivity for all residents? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments.
