Round 2 Enterprise Zones Scoping Study

In Summer 2015 the North East Local Enterprise Partnership (NE LEP), following guidance from national government, submitted an application to create a number of Enterprise Zones across the North East. Enterprise Zone status would allow selected development sites a vehicle to access funding which could be used to invest in key infrastructure and site enabling works to bring forward development. Enterprise Zone status would be awarded on the premise that the sites, once developed, would generate rates in the future and repay the cost of the initial works. Northumberland County Council, in partnership with Arch, shortlisted a number of sites from the Northumberland Sites and Premises Study and after further assessment selected three preferred sites. In collaboration with the other seven local authorities a comprehensive North East bid was developed and submitted. The application was successful and as a result three sites were awarded Enterprise Zone status in Northumberland; Ashwood Business Park, Ramparts Business Park and Fairmoor. This gives Arch and the Council the ability to secure funding to carry out key infrastructure works and provide occupiers with incentives; either business rate relief or Enhanced Capital Allowances (ECA tax benefits.) Arch are seeking consultant/s support to scope the potential for two of the three allocated Enterprise Zone sites: 1. Fairmoor, Morpeth, 8.71 ha greenfield site adjacent to the new Northern Bypass. Proposals currently include the creation of mixed light industrial use with a small allocation for office space aimed at attracting Knowledge Intensive Businesses. 2. Ashwood Business Park, Ashington,16.3 ha industrial site located on the A189. Already home to Bernicia and Akzo Nobel, the site has capacity for further development focusing on larger industrial requirements.