Project details
Portfolio: Culture, creative, tourism and sport
Funding amount: N/A
Funder: N/A
Project status: In progress
Delivery partner: Foundation of Light, Newcastle United Foundation, Newcastle Rugby Foundation, Durham Cricket Foundation and Eagles Community Foundation
Key contact: Lesley Strickland & Ben Cuthbertson
Key contact email: Lesley.Strickland@northeast-ca.gov.uk & Ben.Cuthbertson@northeast-ca.gov.uk
Page last updated 15-12-2025
The North-East is home to world-class sporting assets in football, cricket, basketball, rugby, athletics and running. Our region boasts dramatic countryside, urban realms and a stunning coastline that lends itself to sport and activity. There is passion and pride in sport across the North-East region. Despite this, we face some of the lowest physical activity rates in England and significant health and economic challenges.
Through the Mayors vision for a Region of Sport we will work with the North Easts 5 sporting foundations; Foundation of Light, Newcastle United Foundation, Newcastle Rugby Foundation, Durham Cricket Foundation and Eagles Community Foundation to increase participation, and unlock opportunities for all.
By working with the regions sporting Foundations we will be able to break down those barriers that stops so many taking part, and inspire the next generation of local sporting superstars. We want the North-East to be a place where sport significantly enhances our quality of life; igniting a passion in our people, driving positive economic impact, creating opportunities and aspirations and improving physical and mental health.
Region of Sport will also see us bring world class sporting events to the North East, making our region the first choice for events, competitions, and global sporting moments. This will not only inspire and bring together out communities, it will have positive impacts on our hospitality & tourism sectors, and provide opportunities to market the North East to the world.