A Northumberland-based education and energy development project is moving forward as plans progress for a new facility aimed at boosting skills and innovation.
The Energy Central Institute is set to be built in Blyth town centre following approval from Northumberland County Council’s cabinet to progress the £25 million scheme.
Located near Market Place, officials say the institute will focus on higher-level training, supporting degree and PhD-level study while strengthening links between industry, academia and the renewable energy sector.
The development builds on the success of the nearby Energy Central Learning Hub at the Port of Blyth, which has supported more than 5000 learners since opening 15 months ago.
Councillor Richard Wearmouth, cabinet member for regeneration at Northumberland County Council, said: “This is yet another milestone in the transformation of Blyth.
“The new facility will generate significant public benefits not only by enhancing knowledge and skills in the growing energy sector, but also increasing footfall and spending, and stimulating the town's regeneration and night-time economy.”
Danielle Portsmouth, future skills manager for ORE Catapult, added: “The North East is fast becoming a major hub for offshore wind, and we know there is a lot of opportunity for future growth.
“Alongside this growth it’s vital that we ensure we are creating positive career pathways for people from different backgrounds to reskill and upskill and equip them for the opportunities to come, as well as ensuring that businesses across the North East have the talent they need to grow and innovate.
“The Energy Central Institute is going to be a key part of that, and we’re especially excited that it’s going to be located in the heart of Blyth, right next to our major testing facility, and we’re looking forward to working with our partners to make it a success.”
Both facilities are operated by Energy Central Campus Ltd, a partnership between the Port of Blyth, Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult and the council, designed to develop the talent pipeline for the growing clean energy sector.
Construction is expected to begin this summer, with the facility scheduled to open by the end of 2027.
Martin Lawlor OBE, chair of Energy Central Campus, added: “The Energy Central Institute represents a major step forward in building the skills and innovation ecosystem required to support the UK’s transition to clean energy.
“By working in partnership with industry and academia, we are creating a facility that will equip people with the advanced skills needed for the jobs of the future, while reinforcing Blyth’s position as a key hub for the energy sector.”
The project forms part of the wider £95 million Energising Blyth regeneration programme, which aims to drive economic growth, increase footfall and position the town at the forefront of the UK’s energy transition.
Alan Ferguson, chair of the Pride in Place board, added: “As a board, we are so pleased that this project is moving forward.
“It will complement the boost in skills through the already successful Energy Central Learning Hub into this building, which will be right in the town centre, inspiring people to continue their education and training into higher education qualifications.”
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