Gateshead-based Rubb Buildings was the main subcontractor responsible for the design, manufacture and installation of a new sports hub at Budehaven Community School in Cornwall, a specialist sports college.

Rubb came on board after main contractor Leadbitter won the contract following a competitive tender process. The project started out as a one court tennis hall which grew into a two court hall after more funding was secured.

The design was then changed to also accommodate two netball courts, which involved increasing the height of the building while maintaining the overall footprint. The completed sports hall measures 39.5m x 35m with 7.2m high sidewalls, of which three metres are steel clad.

Rubb was responsible for providing the steel framed superstructure which is clad with a PVDF-coated polyester fabric membrane. General manager Ian Hindmoor said: "The steel clad sidewalls add protection and the white fabric allows natural light to penetrate into the hall to provide a light and airy atmosphere ideal for both sports."

He added: "Budehaven is the third project of its kind in the area. Rubb has already completed sports complexes for Paignton Community and Sports College and Taunton Vale Sports Club. "We are looking forward to seeing the latest facility being used by the pupils of Budehaven School and the local community."

Mrs Denise May MBE, Director of Sport and Assistant Headteacher at Budehaven said: "The new facility is an iconic building for both the school and wider communities. "It has enabled us to enhance the sporting provision for our 1300 students and feeder primary schools and support the development of two growing sports of netball and tennis in the town, creating centres of excellence and generating new sporting opportunities for all.

"The centre is now at the heart of our school and community leisure provision and in the lead up to 2012 will provide a lasting legacy."