York college to take over running of popular Middlesbrough's Newham Grange Leisure Farm

A York-based college could take over the running of Middlesbrough's Newham Grange Leisure Farm - saving the council £60,000

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Newham Grange Leisure Farm over the years

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A York-based college could take over the running of Middlesbrough’s Newham Grange Leisure Farm - saving the council £60,000.

The new partnership with Askham Bryan College would secure the Coulby Newham attraction’s long-term future.

The agricultural and horticultural college will take on existing farm staff and undertake restoration work.

The proposal will result in an annual saving to Middlesbrough Council of around £60,000 as part of the ongoing Change Programme.

Councillor Nicky Walker, Middlesbrough Council’s executive member for environment, said: “Newham Grange Leisure Farm is one of Middlesbrough’s best-loved family attractions, and this proposal has real potential to give it a new lease of life.

“This exciting partnership with Askham Bryan College will help to secure the farm’s future and will be welcomed by the many thousands of visitors who enjoy the first class family facilities and entertainment at Newham Grange every year.”

Askham Bryan College chief executive Liz Philip said: “The partnership means the college can add to the already fantastic facilities on offer at Askham Bryan College and enhance the leisure facilities available to the public in general.

“This initiative complements our ethos to provide first class courses and modern facilities for students from across Teesside and beyond.

“We are delighted to be able to be playing a role in generating jobs and boost education opportunities for young people across Teesside.”

The proposals will be considered by the council’s executive at a meeting on April 8.

It opened as Newham Grange Leisure Farm in 1976. It changed its name, replacing leisure with country, two years ago - when Middlesbrough Council bought it from Albert Hopper, whose family had owned Newham Grange farm since the 17th century.

Once a traditional farm , the Wykeham Way site now houses more exotic animals alongside farm animals. There are pigs, cows, sheep, horses, ponies, chickens, ducks, geese, llamas, chinchillas, rabbits, guinea pigs, sugar gliders and wallabies.