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• ASTEC (Aquaculture Science Technology Enterprise Centre), Ashington

• Ashington Town Centre - Regeneration

• Blyth Offshore Technology Park, Blyth

• Ashwood Business Park, Ashington

• Northumberland Business Park, Cramlington

The Vision of a Successful Northumberland

Northumberland recently completed an economic assessment of the county. This has provided a vision of the county for the future. By 2020 Northumberland will have built an economy which is more diverse, but also boasting specialisms in key areas. Local business will be well integrated into the global economy and will supply economies all over the world. The size of the business stock will be expanded significantly and this will be caused, in part, by an increased number of lifestyle businesses and satellite companies, servicing the county’s global businesses.

Northumberland is currently preparing a new Economic Strategy to be finalised by March 2010 and providing the right conditions for business growth is a key element of this strategy.

Our aim is to ensure that businesses are attracted by the county’s pool of highly skilled workers, and the quality of the local area that can provide a high standard of living to suit a variety of needs.

Further information can be found at www.nsp.org.uk/economicstrategy.

Planned Developments

ASTEC (Aquaculture Science Technology Enterprise Centre), Ashington

Located alongside the existing business activity of Shoreline Polychaete Farms aquaculture building and offices at Woodhorn Village, Ashington. The development will offer incubator offices, work units and laboratory science units for aquaculture/marine based businesses. Incubators to be constructed in 2010.

Ashington Town Centre - Regeneration

There are a range of major developments planned for Ashington Town Centre. The North East Quadrant site currently includes the existing Asda store, petrol filling station, bus depot and other land interests. A new Asda is being developed on the Portland Park site and is due to open October 2009. A Supplementary Planning Document is being prepared and will provide the blueprint for a mixed use development on the North East Quadrant.

Blyth Offshore Technology Park, Blyth

A master plan was completed in 2007 and an implementation plan in 2009 for the development of a Technology Park in Blyth. NaREC (New and Renewable Energy Centre) is a national centre for the UK dedicated to accelerating the deployment and grid integration of renewable energy and low carbon generation technologies, utilising wind, wave, tidal, solar PV and thermal power. The technology park proposals aim to build on the demand in this sector by providing small business enterprise/incubation space for new/small businesses and follow on accommodation for expanding companies. 

Ashwood Business Park, Ashington

A phased development scheme of almost 90 acres situated immediately off the A189 Northumberland spine road. The first phase comprises 6 industrial units ranging from 4,000sqft to 10,000sqft. The units offer reception, kitchen facilities and mezzanine storage in the larger units. The site also benefits from CCTV security. Rental charges range from £18,000 to £41,000 per annum. Phase 1 was completed in August 2007.

Northumberland Business Park, Cramlington

A 5 phase development scheme extending to 19.3 ha (47.69 acres) in total. Located south of Cramlington town centre with national road linkages and offering a range of office accommodation varying from 2,250sqft to 25,500sqft. Specialist facilities can also be constructed to suit requirements, subject to planning. Ancillary facilities include a hotel, restaurant and service station.