Northumberland unveils major investment site

A new industrial development site aimed at attracting global investment has been unveiled in Northumberland.

Northumberland County Council officially launched the Northumberland Strategic Investment Site (N-SIS) at UKREiiF 2026 in Leeds, describing it as a “site of genuine national importance” which will put “Northumberland firmly on the map as a destination for large-scale, future-facing investment”. 

Located in south east Northumberland, the 77-hectare site has capacity for up to 3.25 million sq ft of industrial and advanced manufacturing space aimed at large-scale occupiers across sectors including energy, engineering and advanced manufacturing.

The announcement follows a series of major investment deals in the county, including Blackstone QTS’ proposed £10 billion data centre campus and JDR Cables’ £130 million manufacturing facility at the neighbouring Northumberland Energy Park.

Council leaders say N-SIS has been designed to support long-term economic growth and high-value job creation, with flexible plots allowing businesses to tailor developments to their operational needs.

Richard Wearmouth, deputy leader of Northumberland County Council, said: “The launch of the Northumberland Strategic Investment Site (N-SIS) marks a hugely significant moment for our county and for the wider North East and UK economy. 

“This is a site of genuine national importance, 77 hectares of prime development land, designed to attract global investors and create 5000 high-quality jobs for our communities. 

“With exceptional connectivity and access to the energy infrastructure required by modern industry, N-SIS places Northumberland firmly on the map as a destination for large-scale, future-facing investment.” 

The site also sits close to the Government-backed AI Growth Zone and Investment Zone locations, strengthening Northumberland’s ambitions to become a nationally significant hub for clean energy, offshore renewables and advanced industry.

Connectivity has been highlighted as a key selling point, with direct access to the A1 and A19, links to the Port of Blyth and improved passenger connections through the reintroduced Northumberland Line.

Richard added: “N-SIS has been carefully planned to meet the demands of today’s industrial occupiers and tomorrow’s industries. 

“This is about creating a globally competitive offer, with the infrastructure, connectivity and energy capacity that investors now expect when making long-term location decisions.”  

Northumberland County Council worked alongside Turner & Townsend and Ryder Architecture to develop the masterplan, which includes infrastructure delivery, sustainability and design frameworks intended to accelerate investment readiness and attract international occupiers.

Richard added: “Working with Turner & Townsend and Ryder Architecture, we have created a masterplan that combines scale, flexibility and sustainability, ensuring the site can accommodate major investment across sectors such as offshore renewable energy, electrification and advanced manufacturing. 

“Located just minutes away from deep-water Port of Blyth and the new £8.35 million dock at Northumberland Energy Park, the site offers prime investment opportunities for companies seeking a near port setting with global shipping capabilities. 

“It also offers the chance to be part of Energy Central, Northumberland’s offshore renewable energy cluster, in a location synonymous with offshore wind.” 

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