George Clarke: Beacon will be a 'game changer'

Architect and TV Restoration Man George Clarke grew up in Sunderland and is also a trustee of Foundation of Light.

He is passionate about the power of architecture to change communities so joined Sunderland AFC’s registered charity to meet with MP’s and ministers in the House or Lords recently to reveal the plans for the Beacon of Light.

Speaking about the Beacon of Light, the Sunderland-born architect and TV personality said: “I’m a firm believer in the ability of architecture to inspire people and transform lives and the Beacon of Light will be the epitome of this in a very literal sense.

Stadium Park, where the Beacon of Light will be based, has an annual footfall of over one million people. It was an ambitious project when envisaged, which has had a massive knock on effect for the city and surrounding region.

“Activities at the Stadium have brought an estimated £60m into the regional economy and the Beacon of Light will be the next game-changer on site, generating a substantial saving to the public purse, and contributing to the further regeneration of this region.”

The Beacon will have four distinctive zones and welcome over 300,000 people through the doors of the building every year. It will be a true community hub and bursting with activity.

George added: “I really think the Beacon will become an iconic symbol, not just for Sunderland, but for the whole country.”