Member Article

Design team appointed for £74 million Ashington regeneration scheme

The design team that will bring to life the £74 million Ashington Investment Plan has now been appointed.

Arch, The Northumberland Development Company, has appointed a consortium led by GVA as Design Team Project Managers to bring forward the development proposals for Ashington.

The consortium is made up of local North East based practices Space Group, Mott MacDonald, One Associates, and Artis Consulting.

Over the next 12 months the team will commence design work on the scheme and prepare the vision for the Ashington plans bringing to life the development.

The Ashington Investment Plan is one of the biggest regeneration development opportunities in Northumberland.

Arch is leading the delivery of a ten-year programme that will invest around £74 million and bring over 1,000 high-quality jobs to the heart of Ashington and transform the town centre’s physical environment.

The Investment Plan will facilitate the physical elements of Northumberland County Council’s wider vision for a healthier and more prosperous Ashington, through economic regeneration and the attraction of wider public and private sector investment.

There will be opportunities for residents and businesses to see the designs and drawings at future engagement events.

Arch Chair and Deputy Leader of Northumberland County Council, Cllr Dave Ledger, said: “The Investment Plan is a unique regeneration opportunity and we have selected a team which we feel will deliver an inspiring scheme which is fitting of its location and importance within Ashington town centre.

“The team has an excellent track record in developing outstanding regeneration projects.

“Together with their project partners, their experience and insight will create designs that will focus on Ashington being a catalyst for economic growth in the town centre and help support successful and sustainable business development in the area.

“We have been tremendously encouraged by the active involvement of local people and stakeholders throughout the engagement events.

“They have helped shape plans to improve Ashington for people who live, work and study in the area and that will continue during this next stages of the Masterplanning”.

Gordon Hewling, who is leading the project on behalf of GVA, said “We are delighted to be working alongside Arch and the other members of the Design Team in order to deliver the Ashington Investment Plan, which will be transformational for the town.

“Along with the other members of the team, we aim to bring our extensive public and private sector experience to the scheme, ensuring the best commercial and technical advice is provided.”