Plans submitted for ‘world-class’ STEM centre

Plans have been submitted for a new STEM centre in Darlington aimed at strengthening the region’s skills pipeline and creating pathways into high-value careers.

Regeneration specialist Cityheart has lodged a planning application for the facility at Darlington Science Park, within the town’s Central Park innovation district.

Officials say the centre will provide specialist teaching and learning facilities focused on science, technology, engineering and mathematics, including laboratories, data science facilities and immersive learning spaces.

Plans also include a flexible 200-seat lecture theatre for education, industry engagement and community events.

Once completed, the centre will be operated by Darlington College, which helped develop the original concept and business case.

James Litherland, development director at Cityheart, said: “This is an important step towards delivering a facility that will create lasting opportunities for people across Darlington and the wider region.

“Since signing our development agreement with the council in May, we have wasted no time in bringing the STEM Centre forward at pace.  

“We are proud to be working with fantastic partners on a state-of-the-art facility that will help connect education directly with the industries driving economic growth and opportunities across the region.”

David Gartland, principal and chief executive at Darlington College, added: “This investment represents a significant opportunity for both the College and the wider community, helping to equip people with the knowledge and technical skills required for the industries of tomorrow. 

“We look forward to continuing to work with our partners as the project progresses and to delivering a building that will bring lasting benefits.

“The development will create world-class facilities for learners and strengthen the skills pipeline that local employers need to support future growth.”

The scheme has been developed by Cityheart alongside Darlington Borough Council, the college and industry stakeholders to respond to local skills needs and support employers across the Tees Valley and North East.

It will sit alongside organisations including Teesside University, CPI and Innovation Central, further strengthening Central Park’s growing education, research and innovation cluster.

Councillor Chris McEwan, deputy leader of the council and cabinet member for economy at Darlington Borough Council, added: “The submission of this planning application, which will now be subject to due process, marks another significant milestone in the delivery of a project which, if approved, will have a lasting impact on our town.

“A STEM Centre will support local people in accessing the skills, education and opportunities needed to secure high value careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, while supporting businesses to recruit and develop talent locally.”

The project is being funded through the Government’s Growth Mission Fund and Pride in Place programme.

The wider design and delivery team includes Space Architects, Identity Consult, BGP, TGA, ELG Planning and OOBE.

A decision on the planning application is expected before the end of 2026.

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