Funding awarded for FURD’s new home
Football Unites, Racism Divides (FURD) has announced plans for a new multi-million pound home in Sheffield after the government agreed to award funding.
Known as The U-Mix Centre, it will act as a multi-purpose centre and is to be built on the Lowfield Open Space between Queens Road and Bramall Lane. Funding comes from the Myplace programme and the centre will also be used to host a whole range of positive activities for young people.
Local MP Paul Blomfield, who has been lobbying on behalf of the U-Mix Centre, said: “I’m delighted by this news. U-Mix will be a fantastic new facility for all young people. All credit must go to the Urban Mixtures youth group who from day one have driven forward this project. They are an inspirational group of young people, and I’m delighted that the youth centre will now be built. It will be a testament to their commitment, passion and hard work.”
He added: “Football Unites’ work is pioneering and the new youth centre will be a fantastic new base for their outstanding work.”
FURD Director Howard Holmes commented: “We are thrilled that the U-Mix Centre will now go ahead. In particular we are relieved that this confirmation of government funding has secured the £350,000 match grant from the Football Foundation for the all-weather pitch and changing facilities.
“I would personally like to thank Ian Blakemore from Activity Sheffield for his unstinting support, especially in our negotiations with the Foundation. Also, the backing we received from Sheffield’s own superstar Jessica Ennis came at a crucial time and we very much hope she will be able to work with us in the future.”