Fläkt Woods’ eQ units selected for landmark Newcastle community centre
Fläkt Woods is delivering eQ air handling units for the redevelopment of Newcastle-upon-Tyne’s former West Road Fire Station into a community centre, known as the Beacon.
The new building will provide a facility for local people to learn new skills and be encouraged to look at self-employment and business start up as a way to a brighter future. Designed by local architect Ainsworth Sparks, at three storeys high and with a footprint of 35,000ft2, the new building will be substantial and environmentally friendly.The project was funded by Centre West and Groundwork STAN and part financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) 2007-2013.
Internally the building has strong architectural features including a central glass atrium, striking coloured glass panels and complex shape.
On the ground floor, a central atrium will house the main reception and is a perfect space to act as a gallery for art exhibitions. At either side of this space are the bistro and the Enterprise Centre, which is a flexible space for those individuals just starting out in setting up their own business.
Surrounding the main area, separated by a mall, are artisans’ units that are glass fronted. These 12 units are workshop spaces for creative people to make and display their products which will attract the community into the building.
On the first floor is a range of business accommodation for new start and existing businesses. There are offices, a meeting room and break out spaces providing a modern and prime location as a business address.
The building also features a high quality venue for conferences and celebrations in the flexible function suite with panoramic views and outdoor balcony space.
