Member Article

Newcastle’s potential for investment showcased on world stage

Newcastle’s standing as a leading European city for potential investment was demonstrated by the Invest Newcastle team at international property show MIPIM last week.

A service delivered by NewcastleGateshead Initiative on behalf of the city to attract and secure new investment and jobs, Invest Newcastle was joined by Newcastle City Council and a 25-strong delegation of leading businesses from the city who attended the event.

The delegation presented a portfolio of opportunities and attracted hundreds of MIPIM delegates to its pavilion through a series of events, covering topics such as, digital construction, PRS and revitalising old buildings.

Moreover, property consultancy GVA hosted a dinner alongside the Council which was attended by key industry investors including Legal & General, Aviva Investors, M&G, Bruntwood and Muse Developments.

In addition, Ryder Architects launched the masterplan for East Pilgrim Street and were announced as the assigned architects for Legal & General’s first Grade A office block on Science Central.

As part of the event, Space Group were commissioned to create a 360 degree, 3D experience to allow users to explore development sites as if they were actually in the buildings.

The virtual reality experience allowed MIPIM delegates to walk through and explore new and upcoming development opportunities in the city including Newcastle Science Central, Stephenson Quarter and North Shore.

The event was attended by over 24,000 delegates, from 100 countries, including 5,000 investors and financial institutions, gathering the most influential players from all sectors of the international property industry.

Pat Ritchie, Chief Executive of Newcastle City Council, said: “Confidence is building momentum in Newcastle with many investors looking to the city and the regions outside of London for new and exciting investment opportunities.

“Newcastle is a Great North City brimming with opportunity and, as we demonstrated at MIPIM, at the core of our approach is the strong working partnerships we have with the private sector. We will continue to work together on delivering viable solutions which secure long-term economic growth for the city. Newcastle’s best days truly are ahead of us.”

Catherine Walker, Inward Investment Director at Invest Newcastle, added: “Our attendance at MIPIM was a huge success. The Newcastle pavilion was always busy and had a true buzz around it. Our partners were able to meet with influential industry investors and have come away with key contacts, new leads and signed deals.

“The show is an unmissable opportunity to showcase Newcastle as a core UK city, and promote the city’s opportunities on a global stage.”