Arlington Real Estate and Homes England have submitted an outline planning application for the masterplan of the 1m sq ft+ West Hartford Park development on the edge of Cramlington in Northumberland.
The proposed development seeks to support the expansion of the Port of Blyth and forms a key part of the Energy Central Partnership, which positions South East Northumberland as a national hub for offshore and renewable energy, clean technology and advanced manufacturing.
The masterplan for the 126-acre site sets out the delivery of flexible B2/B8 units ranging from 174,375 sq ft to 532,000 sq ft, available on both a freehold and leasehold basis, as well as office space, ancillary retail and cutting-edge education and innovation facilities.
Dean Cook, managing director of Arlington Real Estate, said: “Submitting the planning application marks an important milestone in unlocking the full potential of West Hartford Park. This is the only site in the region capable of delivering development at this scale, in a location that has the power, infrastructure and global connectivity that large occupiers require.
“Collaboration with the Port of Blyth means this project will directly support the growth of the offshore and renewable energy sector, as well as advanced manufacturing, logistics and AI sectors, bringing jobs, investment and long-term economic value to Northumberland and the wider North East. There is already strong interest from major national and international businesses, and we believe West Hartford Park will become a significant commercial location not only for the region, but for the UK.”
Richard Wearmouth, deputy leader of Northumberland County Council and cabinet member for business, growth and regeneration, added: “This is very welcome news for our largest remaining employment site in the current local plan. Making maximum use of the West Hartford site is incredibly important to our ongoing drive to bring further investment and job opportunities into Northumberland.”
Martin Lawlor OBE, chief executive of the Port of Blyth, said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership to help develop West Hartford Park. Once approved, the site will not only provide important additional capacity for port-related development but will also be a catalyst for further economic growth across the region.”
