CONTRACTORS are putting the final touches to a new complex that will boost sport in the community.
The unique structure at Darlington School of Mathematics and Science uses a hi-tech fabric stretched over a steel frame to provide staff, students and athletes in the Cockerton area with an ultra-modern sporting facility.
Built at a cost of £700,000, the eco-building allows natural light to penetrate the interior for a host of events to take place without having to use the lights.
Home to four courts, the hall also features modern changing facilities and classrooms.
Full-height curtains allow the structure to be divided into sections allowing sports such as badminton, basketball, netball, football and volleyball to be played at the same time.
The facility will be used to hone the skills of DSMS athletes and will also be available for clubs in the area.
DSMS facilities manager Julie Park said: “It has been an amazing experience watching the sports hall rise from nothing over the past few months and everyone is becoming really excited now it is virtually complete. It is going to be a school facility to be proud of.”
Head teacher Calvin Kipling added: “Sport is such an important part of learning imbuing senses of healthy competition, dedication and commitment. Being active is also essential to future health and now we have the very best facility to complement the upgrading of the rest of the school.
“Students will be encouraged to use the hall as part of the curriculum and outside of the school timetable. We are also really keen to see the community make the most of what is an exceptional facility.”
DSMS has been completely transformed over the past number of years since it became an academy with £3m being spent on the learning environment and a radical overhaul of the curriculum and teaching methods.
