Member Article

Job creation key to Lynemouth aluminium smelter regeneration plan

A masterplan to transform the former aluminium smelter in Lynemouth, Northumberland, is currently being put together by UK property regeneration company Harworth Estates.

The firm, which purchased the 320 acre site from Rio Tinto Alcan in April 2015, intends to consult with locals on a draft in Spring next year, with plans to bring employment uses back to the site a key feature.

In parallel with master-planning future development, Harworth Estates has also been carrying out the early stages of redevelopment including the demolition of some existing buildings.

The company has also agreed a long term deal to secure the future of one of its first new tenants, with 80 people already employed on the site.

Harworth Estates is also redeveloping land in other parts of the North East, including at Ellington where it received planning consent in June for up to 400 homes, a new convenience retail store and two full-sized football pitches.

Eddie Peat, director of natural resources at Harworth Estates, said: “This is a hugely significant site for the North East which has great potential for commercial development.

“The process to prepare the site is progressing well but we are taking time and care with our master-planning to provide the best possible chance of attracting investment and providing new jobs for the region.”

Northumberland county councillor Liz Simpson represents Newbiggin Central and East and she convened a recent meeting with Harworth Estates for Woodhorn Village residents: “It was very reassuring to hear this major piece of industrial land has passed into good hands.

“Residents were interested to learn more about Harworth Estates and to gain an early understanding of the plans for the site.”