Turbine Business Park Construction Started

The £70 million Turbine Business Park has now been granted reserved matters planning and construction has started. The 55 acre scheme is strategically located between Sunderland and Washington, on land fronting the A1231 adjacent to the junction with the A19, and will incorporate a prestigious 715,000 sq ft business park with office space, light industrial units, a hotel and car showroom and ancillary retail.

Barmston Developments, a joint venture partnership between Wilton Developments and Clugston Developments, has appointed contractor Hall Construction to carry out the first phase of infrastructure work on the 55 acre scheme, which includes 0.75km of the new access road known as Turbine Way, with completion due this autumn.

Jason Stowe, director of Wilton Developments, said: "We've worked closely with Sunderland City Council to create a masterplan for the site that we hope will generate in excess of 4,000 new jobs.

"Now that we have secured reserved matters planning we are keen to make a start on the scheme as swiftly as possible. A number of occupiers have already expressed their interest in space on the busines park and we are likely to be able to report our first deal very soon, prior to any serious marketing of the scheme."

Bob Culliford, managing director of Clugston Developments Ltd, added: "I am pleased to see the masterplan that we have all worked so hard on becoming a reality, in spite of the current economic climate.

"Our commitment and the commitment of our investors to the scheme has remained unwavering and we are looking forward to delivering a vibrant mixed use scheme that will appeal to those looking for a foothold in the North East, as well as meeting local occupier needs."

Sunderland City Council Leader, Paul Watson, concluded: "Turbine Business Park is a real indicator of the economic resilience and strength of the region.