Energy Central Campus Enters Next Phase of Development

Energy Central Campus (ECC) is marking a significant milestone in the development of its second phase, the Energy Central Institute (ECI), with construction scheduled to begin this summer.

The £25m Energy Central Institute will be located in Blyth town centre, adjacent to the Market Place and opposite the new Market Pavilion. The facility will focus on higher-level skills development and technological innovation, strengthening Blyth’s role at the forefront of growth in the energy sector.

The Institute builds on the success of Energy Central Campus’s first phase, the Energy Central Learning Hub (ECLH) at the Port of Blyth, which has welcomed more than 5,000 learners in just 15 months. The ECLH delivers STEM education and vocational training, developing energy sector skills for young people at school and college, and adults re-training for new roles.

The ECI will provide a clear progression pathway from the ECLH into higher education, research, and clean energy careers, developing expertise at degree and PhD level and creating a focal point for collaboration between energy businesses, the Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult and North East universities.

Both the ECLH and ECI are operated by Energy Central Campus Ltd, a unique partnership between the Port of Blyth, Northumberland County Council, and the Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult. The partnership is focused on creating the pipeline of talent required for the expanding clean energy sector, at the same time, inspiring, training and delivering pathways to employment for the local community.

The Council’s Cabinet have now agreed a series of measures to allow the scheme to progress and place orders with contractors. Construction of the ECI is due to start this summer, with the facility expected to open by the end of 2027.

Martin Lawlor OBE, Chair of Energy Central Campus, said: “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.”

Cllr Richard Wearmouth, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, 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 Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult, said: “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.”

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."

The project forms part of the £95m Energising Blyth regeneration programme, designed to grow, renew, and better connect the town. The programme is delivered by Northumberland County Council with funding support from UK Government, Northumberland County Council and the North East Combined Authority.