Plans for a £1.5 million stadium in Newark, built using repurposed shipping containers, have been revealed.
The Lincoln Road Playing Field development is part of the wider Yorke Drive Estate Regeneration scheme, which will also see the construction of 207 new homes.
Newark & Sherwood District Council granted final planning permission for the overall housing scheme on 13 February.
Lincoln Road Playing Field is set to be transformed into a 500-seater sustainable stadium, according to proposed plans that will be submitted later.
Newark & Sherwood United FC (NSUFC) unveiled a 3D model of the proposed stadium, designed by Gusto Group architects Studio G and Rototek.
The project, expected to cost £1.5 million, will be constructed using 66 repurposed shipping containers.
The stadium will adopt a sustainable approach, incorporating off-grid energy solutions such as solar power and rainwater harvesting.
Facilities will include a floodlit pitch for training and matches, a bar, and balconies overlooking the pitch.
Other features will include changing rooms, a community kitchen, a boxing gym, a shed workspace, and space for music events. Tree planting around the site will also create a woodland walk.
NSUFC will be based at the new stadium alongside other local junior clubs.
Steff Wright, Chairman of Gusto Group, said:
“There are millions of shipping containers that travel around the world carrying goods.
“So this is a sustainable approach. They don’t require the same type of foundations or engineering as traditional construction.
“They’re more affordable and flexible, allowing for changes to the design elements.
“The design will feature a wrap-around stadium. Modern football stadiums often have full wrap-around designs, which can be expensive for larger venues.
“But our design uses two levels of shipping containers, one on top of the other, to create an enclosure around the ground.
“It will be an amazing environment to play and watch football.
“The viewing platform on the second level will place spectators close to the edge of the pitch, offering a unique and immersive experience.
“We don’t just want this stadium to be used for football but for concerts and other activities as well.”
Councillor David Moore (Newark & Sherwood Independents), Vice-Chair of Newark & Sherwood District Council’s Planning Committee, praised the Yorke Drive Regeneration project as a “marvellous” addition to the town.
He said:
“It’s been quite a few years in the planning, with ups and downs along the way.
“Now, as a council, we’ve had the opportunity to approve it so builders can get their spades in the ground and get started.
“It’s marvellous – we need it for the area. It’s a great project and very well thought out.
“It’s a fantastic space for residents, though it will take a few years to complete, as these things don’t happen overnight.
“I’m looking forward to seeing the end result in a couple of years’ time.”
NSUFC said they will submit a planning application for the 500-seater stadium by the end of March for the council’s approval.
They will hold several public consultations before submitting the application.
The wider Yorke Drive Estate Regeneration scheme will involve the demolition of 130 homes, the existing sports pavilion, playing fields, and a row of garages.
In their place, a total of 207 new homes will be built, including:
18 one-bedroom apartments
54 two-bedroom houses
117 three-bedroom houses
18 four-bedroom houses
Of the 207 homes, 74 will be designated as affordable housing, while the remaining 133 will be private housing.
