Work begins on multi-million pound County Durham scheme set to create 130 jobs

Construction has begun on a new ‘landmark’ development set to create 130 new jobs in County Durham.

Work has now started on a range of industrial units at Station Place in Newton Aycliffe following the granting of planning permission in December 2020.

The new £4.8m scheme on Site 2 at Merchant Park is set to provide 50,333 sq ft of industrial space in a bid to support new and expanding businesses in Newton Aycliffe, delivering a total of ten new industrial units and creating 130 jobs.

Station Place is part of the wider £90m Merchant Park industrial scheme in Newton Aycliffe – a 65-acre development at Aycliffe Business Park off J59 of the A1(M) and home to Hitachi Rail.

Sarah Slaven, interim managing director at Business Durham, explained: “It’s exciting to see the next phase of Merchant Park underway as County Durham has a strong manufacturing sector and we know there is demand for modern industrial facilities.

“The development is a prime location for businesses to establish themselves in County Durham or for relocation and expansion, thanks to its high-quality industrial units, excellent transport links, and the thriving Aycliffe Business Park Community. We are looking forward to welcoming the first tenants to Station Place.”

Cllr Simon Henig, leader of Durham County Council, added: “Supporting the development of strategic employment sites is a main priority for the council and we recognise the importance of meeting companies’ needs by offering high quality and flexible industrial units at key locations throughout the county.

“As the economy moves into the recovery phase it is important we continue to support businesses to thrive and grow, as well as help create high-quality jobs, and generate investment opportunities to boost the economic growth of the county.”

Managed by Business Durham, the development is being delivered in partnership with Merchant Anglo and Rokeby Developments.

Geoff Hunton, director of Merchant Anglo, commented: “We are seeking to address the shortfall of modern fit for purpose units in Newton Aycliffe to support new and growing business in conjunction with our partners Business Durham.

“We are delighted that we are one significant step closer to starting on site. Despite all the challenges of the last two years, we are now receiving real enquiries from local businesses and we are making this phase our priority to get going early this year.”