Blyth energy centre breaks ground
Kier has started work on the £18m Energy Central Institute for Northumberland County Council as part of the Energising Blyth regeneration programme.
Located next to Blyth Market Place and the new Market Pavilion, the Institute is designed to provide opportunities for learners to progress through higher education and into careers within the clean energy sector.
Throughout construction, Kier will work closely with local supply chain partners, education providers and the wider community to create opportunities for young people to engage with the construction industry.
The groundbreaking ceremony brought together partners from across education, industry and government, alongside local learners who the Energy Central Institute will help to train and develop.
Steven Lynn, regional director for Kier Construction North & Scotland, said: “The Energy Central Institute is a fantastic example of the type of projects Kier is proud to deliver; facilities that create long-term social, economic and environmental value for local communities.”
Blyth Energy Institute will feature a flexible theatre, teaching and research spaces, offices, a community café, and a double-height atrium. The layout is designed to maximise collaboration between research and commercial ventures while achieving low carbon in operation.
Cllr Glen Sanderson, Leader of Northumberland County Council, said: “Across the town we are seeing change, with new industries, new housing, new leisure facilities and new ambition. This new Institute, in the heart of the town, will build on that, cultivating fresh skills and talent and securing the workforce of tomorrow.
Martin Lawlor , CEO of Port of Blyth and chair of Energy Central Campus, said: “Today’s groundbreaking is an exciting milestone for ECC and Blyth. We have a wealth of opportunity on our doorstep, with businesses, projects and investment driving the growth of the clean energy sector across the region. ECC was established to ensure local people can access those opportunities, while giving businesses the skilled workforce they need to grow.
“The success of the Energy Central Learning Hub has shown what can be achieved when industry, education and the community work together, and the ECI will take that ambition a step further. By creating a clear pathway from early STEM engagement through to degree and PhD level, right here in Blyth, we can help more people build the skills they need to take advantage of the opportunities on their doorstep and build successful careers in the sector.”
