Work starts at Ashington revamp
Having been appointed on the project in April, Robertson Construction North East is delivering a £16m cinema and restaurant leisure scheme on behalf of Northumberland Council, with the project forming a central element of the wider £36m Regenerating Ashington Programme.
Located at the northern gateway to the town centre, the development will include a five-screen cinema operated by REEL Cinemas, alongside restaurant units and family-focused leisure and entertainment space aimed at increasing visitor activity and extending the town’s evening economy.
The scheme is expected to play a key role in boosting town centre footfall and supporting local businesses, while helping reposition Ashington as a destination for leisure, dining, and social activity.
Funding for the Portland Park development has been provided through a combination of UK Government support, Northumberland County Council investment and backing from Advance Northumberland.
The project forms part of broader regeneration activity already underway across Ashington, including investment in transport infrastructure, public realm improvements and community facilities designed to strengthen the town centre and support long-term economic growth.
It sits alongside other major regeneration projects, including the Wansbeck Square Gateway, forming a coordinated programme of investment aimed at revitalising the heart of Ashington.
Neil Kennedy, regional managing director, Robertson Construction North East, said: “Breaking ground at Portland Park marks an important step in bringing this ambitious vision for Ashington to life. Working closely with Advance Northumberland and Northumberland County Council, we will deliver a high-quality development that creates a vibrant new destination for residents and visitors, while supporting wider regeneration across the town centre.
“As construction gets underway, delivering the project safely and with consideration for the local community will remain our priority, helping to create a destination that will have a lasting positive impact for Ashington.”
Steven Harrison, chief executive, Advance Northumberland, said: “Breaking ground at Portland Park is a hugely important moment for Ashington and for our wider regeneration ambitions. This development will bring new life to the town centre, creating a destination where people can come together to enjoy high quality leisure and entertainment.
“It reflects our commitment to delivering long-term investment that supports local communities, drives economic growth and creates places people are proud to be part of.
“With over 1m passengers on the new Northumberland line in its first year and the new Net Zero Northumberland College Campus set to open in Autumn with 3.500 students, Ashington is set for exciting change.”
