Projects

Lubber Fiend

Completed: 2026
Location: Newcastle upon Tyne
Region: North East

About the project

What does this community space/venue do?
The Lubber Fiend is a DIY music and events space in Newcastle upon Tyne opened in May 2022. We are one of the cities newest independent small-mid sized venues with a current capacity of 140 which we hope to extend to 200 in the near future. We are a DIY music space, a bar, a radio studio and a workshop. We can be a cinema, a place to host markets, record/art fairs, talks and other performances.

What is VIY doing?
VIY will deliver a practical refurbishment project at Lubber Fiend in Newcastle, transforming the existing green space into a more functional and welcoming area.
Working alongside skilled tradespeople, young people will be actively involved in redecorating the space and constructing new features. This will include building seating with integrated storage, a table with additional storage capacity, and installing a wall-mounted frame for coats and bags.
In addition, VIY will support the creation of a new kitchen area with running water, improving the usability of the space for day-to-day activities. Throughout the project, young people will gain hands-on experience in areas such as carpentry, joinery and painting & decorating, while working towards accredited qualifications and developing key employability skills.

What will be the impact of our project?
The project will significantly improve the functionality and appearance of the green space at Lubber Fiend, creating a more practical, organised and comfortable environment for artists, staff and visitors. The addition of storage, seating and a kitchen area with running water will enhance how the space is used on a daily basis.
For the young people involved, the impact will be both immediate and long-term. They will gain valuable, real-world construction experience, achieve recognised qualifications, and build confidence through teamwork and hands-on learning. These experiences support their progression into further education, training or employment.
The project will also strengthen links between the venue and the local community, showcasing how creative spaces can provide meaningful opportunities for young people while delivering lasting social value.

Project contact: shaid@teamviy.com