Taskforce launched to drive AI jobs growth

A new taskforce has been created in the North East to accelerate jobs, training and investment linked to the region’s designation as an AI Growth Zone.

Thousands of roles are expected to be unlocked as AI firm Nscale, local universities and leading skills providers join forces with Government and industry to build new sites in Cambois, near Blyth, and Cobalt Business Park, in North Tyneside. 

Officials say the initiative aims to create apprenticeship and training routes across sectors from construction and energy to advanced AI.

They add that a dedicated taskforce has been set up to fast-track planning, investment and construction, with sites prioritised for early operation before expanding AI’s economic and social impact, including long-term careers and industry innovation.

Technology secretary Liz Kendall said: “The North East is once again leading the charge – this time in the AI revolution.  

“We’re backing local talent with the skills and training they need to thrive in the jobs of tomorrow.

“From laying the physical foundations and building data centres to launching careers in AI, this Growth Zone is about creating real opportunities for people right across the region.”

North East mayor Kim McGuinness added: “We know AI can be transformational for people and the local economy. 

“This investment will mean thousands of jobs for local people and the North East leading innovations in tech.  

“Now we need to work with businesses to develop the talent right here and make sure the benefits of AI reach the people of the region. 

“We’ve already mobilised a taskforce of business leaders, industry experts and skills providers to deliver exactly that.

“I want kids in school here today to see their place in an AI-driven future, and this is how we make sure it provides a new future for our young people.” 

The Growth Zone, which builds on a recent UK-US deal to boost jobs and innovation in AI, quantum and nuclear technologies, is set to attract up to £30 billion in investment, transforming the North East’s tech landscape and enhancing public services such as healthcare. 

Investment commitments are already underway, with Blackstone pledging £10 billion to the Cambois site. 

Nscale, OpenAI and NVIDIA are also collaborating on Stargate UK, a sovereign AI infrastructure platform that will deploy 8000 GPUs next year, scaling to 31,000, with key operations in the region. 

Meanwhile, X-Energy and Centrica plan up to 12 advanced modular reactors in Hartlepool, capable of powering 1.5 million homes and generating £12 billion in regional value. 

Ben Aung, chief of staff at international software firm Sage, headquartered at Cobalt Park, added: “Today’s visit is a vote of confidence in the North East – our new AI Growth Zone puts the region’s innovation on the map and, with early careers in focus, will inspire and upskill the next generation of AI talent.

“To turn that potential into tangible results, businesses and our colleges and universities must work more closely than ever – aligning curricula with real roles, sharing expertise and opening pathways into industry.

“From our global Cobalt Park HQ, Sage is turning that momentum into practical, trusted AI for small businesses – freeing people from time-sapping admin so the whole region can be more productive and prosper.”

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