In the heart of Stewart Park, the Grade II Listed Central Lodge is now home to a 21st-century learning centre for land-based education as part of Askham Bryan College.

Historic setting and a modern future

Once home to dozens of horses, carriages and stablemen, the site will now enable students from across Teesside and beyond to study a range of further education subjects, including animal management, equine and foundation learning courses.

[quote=Ivor Crowther, Head of HLF North East] “Thanks to money raised by National Lottery players, historic Central Lodge has been given a new lease of life as a place of learning for young people across the region."[/quote]

Stewart Park's significance as the birthplace of Captain Cook and its rich history is celebrated through incorporating numerous artefacts and features from the original building.

The park itself has also been transformed with National Lottery funding. In 2009, over £4m was awarded to revitalise the park, which was originally a house and deer park before opening the public in 1928. It now has a visitor centre, events spaces and much improved lakes, paths and woodland areas.

Thanks to National Lottery players

The project was made possible by money raised by National Lottery players and funded through HLF’s Heritage Enterprise programme which helps communities repair derelict historic places and breathe life into vacant sites, giving them a sustainable and commercially viable future.

Ivor Crowther, Head of HLF North East, said: “Thanks to money raised by National Lottery players, historic Central Lodge has been given a new lease of life as a place of learning for young people across the region. Stewart Park itself has already been transformed with National Lottery funding so we’re delighted that another part of Middlesbrough’s heritage has been saved. We look forward to seeing the benefits Askham Bryan College is set to bring for the local community and economy.”

For more information about the project visit the Askham Bryan College website.