SOUTH Tyneside’s Monkton Stadium has been recognised as one of the best run community sports centres in the country.
The venue, in Dene Terrace, Jarrow was one of eight finalists in the ‘most improved’ category of the Association for Public Service Excellence Awards.
The stadium was shortlisted as a result of consecutive improvements over the last three years, including the development of a new 3G synthetic pitch in partnership with South Tyneside Football Trust, reducing its operational costs, increasing admissions and generating more income.
The stadium has also developed a greater variety of activities, sporting options and classes, such as boot camps, American football and rugby league – often at the request of customers.
The APSE inspector found the stadium to be an important community sports facility and home to various clubs and associations including Jarrow & Hebburn Athletics Club, South Tyneside Football Trust, Monkton Fencing Club and Jarrow Vikings Rugby League Club. In addition, it continues to host a number of important regional athletics meetings, and will act as a training facility for teams participating in the 2013 European Championships at Gateshead International Stadium.
Coun Alan Kerr, deputy leader of South Tyneside Council, said: “The APSE award nomination is further proof of the quality leisure facilities on offer in the borough.
“It represents all of the hard work and dedication by council staff and also signifies a high level of excellence being delivered across the board at Monkton Stadium.
“It shows that we are moving in the right direction to achieve great things in the sports and leisure industry.”
Richard Jago, cultural operations manager for South Tyneside Council, said: “To be one of the eight national finalists is welcome recognition for the work we have undertaken to drive down operational costs and increase customer admissions through the introduction of new activities and facilities.”
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