Developer backed to create 2000-job business hub

A developer has secured approval for a 126-acre business hub.

Arlington Real Estate has been backed to create a one million sq ft-plus industrial site at West Hartford, near Cramlington, Northumberland.

Bosses say the venture will help create more than 2000 jobs and pump in excess of £150 million into the North East economy.

Based close to Port of Blyth and QTS’ planned £10 billion Cambois data centre campus, the scheme - known as West Hartford Park - has been backed by Northumberland County Council to create industrial and manufacturing units ranging from 40,000sq ft to 532,000sq ft.

Dean Cook, managing director of Spennymoor-based Arlington Real Estate, which is working alongside Homes England on the endeavour, said it represents a “hugely significant moment for the wider North East economy”.

He added: “The site’s scale, flexibility and infrastructure mean it is exceptionally well placed to support a wide range of sectors, including advanced manufacturing, logistics, clean energy and technology.

“The North East is seeing unprecedented levels of interest and investment, driven in part by major offshore wind opportunities and the continued growth of Port of Blyth.

“West Hartford Park is perfectly positioned to support that momentum.

“We are excited to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Port of Blyth, Northumberland County Council and the North East Combined Authority.”

Councillor Richard Wearmouth, Northumberland County Council deputy leader and cabinet member for the economy, added: “West Hartford is a premier employment site ideally located to take advantage of the economic growth taking place in South East Northumberland.

“The site provides the perfect platform for businesses looking to invest in the vicinity of the £10 billion QTS campus and Northumberland’s offshore renewable energy cluster.

“Achieving this planning permission is a huge milestone for the project and we cannot wait to see the diggers roll in and construction works get started.”

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