Local MP supports AI Growth Zone bid

Calls for a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” to attract major AI investment are gathering pace in the North East.

A bid to designate sites in Hartlepool and Darlington as part of a new UK AI Growth Zone has secured backing from a local MP, strengthening its case to Government.

The proposal has been submitted by a partnership including regional developer Hellens Group, alongside a national data centre operator and an investment firm. 

It outlines a two-site development at Queens Meadow Business Park in Hartlepool and Burtree Garden Village in Darlington, with more than 450MVA of secured power capacity, meeting thresholds set by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology.

Queens Meadow would provide more than 110 acres for development, while the Darlington site would integrate advanced employment uses alongside new housing. 

The plans also explore the potential for low-carbon district heating powered by data centre operations.

Jonathan Brash, MP for Hartlepool, has backed the plans, sending a letter of support to the Government. 

He said: “This proposal is an exciting opportunity for Hartlepool to play a leading role in the next generation of digital and technological growth. 

“Queens Meadow is a strategically important site for our town, and this bid shows how Hartlepool can attract serious long-term investment that brings skilled jobs, new opportunities for local people, and lasting benefits for our economy.

“What matters to me is that any AI Growth Zone delivers real value for our community.

“That means jobs for local people, strong links with Hartlepool College of Further Education, and investment that supports our ambition to be a town at the forefront of innovation and clean growth. 

“Hartlepool has the space, the skills and the potential to make this work, and I am proud to support this bid.”

Both locations sit within the Tees Valley Combined Authority area and align with regional priorities around smart infrastructure, digital skills and low-carbon growth. 

If approved, development could begin from 2028, with local authorities retaining long-term business rate growth.

Gavin Cordwell-Smith, chief executive of Hellens Group, added: “This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to attract long-term, clean investment to the region. 

“It brings the potential for hundreds of high-quality jobs, support for digital skills, and major economic impact for both towns.”

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