Blyth multi-million pound development program could be delivered in 2021

Plans to kick start a North East town’s renewal have moved forward a step with a request for the council to support a £40m investment program.

A report going to Northumberland County Council’s cabinet states predicts that subject to a successful Future High Streets Fund (FHSF) application, the Blyth town centre development programme could be delivered from next year.

The County Council has been asked to support a nearly £40m investment programme prior to a bid to the FSHF this summer.

The council already has £7 million earmarked for the regeneration of the town centre over the next three years and the cabinet is being asked to more than double this amount to kick start the renewal of the town.

If the FSHF bid is successful, the funding will support a programme which delivers a revitalised Blyth Marketplace and Bridge Street with new culture and leisure facilities in the heart of the town centre.

Councillor Richard Wearmouth, cabinet member for economic development, commented: “This is a hugely ambitious scheme which will transform Blyth town centre, which has been in decline for a number of years despite the growing success of the energy industry in the town.

“We want to attract more people to the town centre, whether that’s to live, work or visit. We need to encourage people to come and spend more time here by creating the buzz of a busy and thriving area.

“Like town centres across the country times have changed and we need to address a whole range of issues, from how buildings are used, to how people get around - with an increased focus on green travel including more cycling and walking opportunities.

“With plans for two stations close to Blyth on the new Northumberland Line and a new relief road in the pipeline, along with new employment opportunities anticipated through investment at the Port and the new Northumberland Energy Park, this is a fantastic opportunity to revitalise the town centre for generations to come.”