Project Genesis brings Farmfoods to Consett

Site preparation works have completed on the site of a 13,000 sq ft supermarket, the next step in the County Durham town’s regeneration project.

Absolute Civil Engineering carried out the groundworks. Developer Project Genesis will oversee the project, on behalf of owner Dysart Group.

The site is located at Ponds Court, part of the former steelworks in Consett and so-named because historically it housed the cooling ponds during the steelworks era.

So far, Project Genesis, a development company focused on the development and revitalisation of the former steelworks, has attracted more than £250m in investment and has created employment, provided essential amenities, and supported businesses in the town.

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It was recently announced that the Dysart subsidiary has secured detailed planning permission for a new hospital at the Derwent View site, to replace the one at Shotley Bridge.

This is expected to bring a further £100m in investment into the town, within the next five years.

Mark Short, Project Genesis director and chief executive of the Dysart Group, said: “The construction of the Farmfoods store at Ponds Court completes the regeneration of this part of Consett.

“Over the years, Genesis has successfully delivered major food stores like Tesco and Farmfoods, alongside Derwentside College and other retail and service outlets.

“Building on a former steelworks site presents significant challenges, but Genesis has demonstrated the resilience and expertise necessary to drive investment and growth.

“The council’s planning committee, which approved the project last year, acknowledged its potential to enhance Consett’s regeneration efforts…

“We hope they will continue to support our efforts in bringing further development and opportunities to the town.”