Farewells have been paid to a historic Carlisle school building as it welcomes an exciting new chapter with a pioneering development.
The John Peel building, a former NAAFI hut originally located on the site of Carlisle’s Civic Centre, was moved to Austin Friars School in 1961 and purchased for £400.
The recently-completed demolition works make way for the construction of a modern indoor sports facility, set to be completed by early 2025.
The new facility will feature a 690m² four-court sports hall, modern changing rooms and other amenities.
Matthew Harris, headmaster at Austin Friars, said: "The John Peel building truly withstood the test of time and, while we are sad to see it go, are equally excited that our new development is swiftly moving forward.
"It is our aim as a school to give pupils a life-long love of sport and exercise, and we are confident that our new facility will help us to achieve that goal.
"We look forward to welcoming members of the public – including local community sports teams and organisations – to make use of the facility once it opens."
The John Peel building had a number of different uses throughout its 60-year lifespan at the School - including a gym, cinema, sixth form common room, exam hall, and art department.
Austin Friars has raised over £1.1 million towards its target of £2.5 million so far, which will be used to develop a new Art and Digital Design Centre, as well as build the sports facility.
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