North East Combined Authority has announced an investment of £16.8 million from its Investment Zone programme to support development at two regional green energy locations.
The announcement, published on 27 November 2024, concerns NETPark in County Durham and the Energy Central Campus in Blyth, Northumberland. The investment is intended to help create the infrastructure and facilities needed by businesses and education providers working in emerging energy and manufacturing industries.
The North East Investment Zone is supported by a £160 million programme over ten years. Its focus includes offshore and renewable energy, electric vehicles, battery manufacturing and related low-carbon technologies.
The two sites form part of a wider programme that also includes the River Tyne Economic Corridor and the International Advanced Manufacturing Strategic Site in Sunderland and South Tyneside. The Combined Authority expects Investment Zone measures to encourage private investment and support employment across these locations.
The funding decision identifies the sites and activities the authority intends to progress. Subsequent development and business investment will determine the extent to which they contribute to the Investment Zone's employment and energy objectives.