County Durham unveils ambitious investment prospectus to global audience

County Durham has taken a significant step towards a brighter future with the launch of its new Investment Prospectus at the UK Real Estate Investment & Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF) in Leeds.

This prospectus outlines a comprehensive plan to drive economic growth, create jobs, and promote sustainability in the region.

The new prospectus presents a total of 24 carefully curated investment opportunities across the county, from business ventures and cultural initiatives to housing regeneration projects.

It is part of the County Durham Inclusive Economic Strategy, aiming to attract significant investment and propel the county's economic landscape to new heights.

We dove into the prospectus to understand what it covers.

Key economic strengths:

County Durham’s economy is built on a strong foundation of innovation and industrial heritage. Key strengths include:

• Advanced manufacturing: High concentration in pharmaceuticals, chemicals, metals, and equipment manufacturing.

• Fintech and software: Home to Atom Bank, a pioneer in digital banking.

• Space and satellites: The county hosts the Responsible Space Innovation Centre and North East Satellite Applications Centre of Excellence.

• Green energy: Focus on geothermal energy and lithium extraction, supported by Durham Energy Institute.

Council leader, Cllr Amanda Hopgood, highlighted the county's investment appeal, "Our clarity of vision, support networks, and natural assets make County Durham a fantastic place to invest.

“We have a £9 billion economy, cutting-edge science parks, world-class research capabilities, and a vibrant cultural scene. Our new Investment Prospectus is fully aligned with our Inclusive Economic Strategy and is an invaluable tool for engaging with key partners and investors."

North East Mayor, Kim McGuinness, added: "I'm here to champion our region to the world and create more jobs and opportunities for people. Durham offers a great range of opportunities which I am proud to support."

Major investment opportunities:

Several key projects are highlighted in the prospectus, including:

• NETPark Expansion: Adding new lab and production spaces to support advanced manufacturing.

• Aykley Heads Innovation District: Developing a new campus to drive economic growth in research, data science, and green technology.

• Forrest Park: Expanding Aycliffe Business Park to create the largest industrial estate in the North East.

• Seaham Garden Village: A pioneering project using minewater heat for sustainable housing.

Focus on sustainability

A crucial part of the prospectus is its commitment to sustainability. County Durham aims to be carbon neutral by 2045.

Innovative projects like lithium extraction in Weardale and geothermal energy initiatives in Horden and Seaham highlight the county’s dedication to green energy and reducing its environmental impact.

The County Durham Investment Prospectus presents a clear and exciting path for the region’s future. It showcases the county’s strengths and potential, making a compelling case for why investors should consider County Durham.

The launch at UKREiiF provided an excellent platform to introduce these opportunities to a global audience, reinforcing Durham's position as a prime investment destination.

To learn more about the investment opportunities or to get involved, contact the County Durham investment team at [email protected].

The Investment Prospectus can be downloaded here [PDF].