The University joined partners at a groundbreaking ceremony to mark the start of the second phase of Energy Central Campus (ECC), an ambitious initiative to develop the skills, talent and research needed to support the clean energy sector across the North East.

The ECI is being constructed by Kier Construction adjacent to Blyth Market Place and the new Market Pavilion. Due to open in late 2027, it will bring higher-level education to Blyth for the first time, with Newcastle University and Durham University playing key roles in delivering education, research and innovation at degree and PhD level.

For Newcastle University, the ECI represents a major expansion of its long-standing work with partners in Blyth and across the region, creating new opportunities for students, researchers and businesses to collaborate on the technologies and skills needed for the transition to clean energy.

Developing advanced skills

The ECI will extend the work already underway through the Energy Central Learning Hub (ECLH), creating a progression route from early STEM education and vocational training through to higher education, research and clean energy careers.

The ECLH, based at the Port of Blyth, has welcomed more than 7,000 learners since opening in 2024. Its programmes support young people and adults to develop the skills needed for careers in the clean energy sector.

Professor Jane Robinson, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Business, Partnerships and Place at Newcastle University said: “Today marks an important milestone for Blyth and the wider North East. The Energy Central Institute will bring higher-level education, research and innovation together at the heart of the town, creating new opportunities for people to develop the advanced skills needed for the clean energy sector.

“At Newcastle University, we are immensely proud to be part of Energy Central Campus and we look forward to building on this important work alongside our partners.”

Professor Roberto Palacin, Academic Director for Electrification, Faculty of Science, Agriculture & Engineering (SAgE), Newcastle University, said: “This is an important milestone for ECC, ECI and the wider Blyth community. ECI is the result of a fantastic effort from everyone involved as founding members, not just at our university but across all partners.

“Together with Durham University we are pioneering a comprehensive programme of educational and innovation activities related to offshore and clean energy that has the potential to transform lives as well as driving growth and investment in the region. We are fully committed to this long-standing partnership and as the next phase commences, I am really excited to see it coming to full fruition.”

A wealth of opportunity

Martin Lawlor OBE, CEO of Port of Blyth and Chair of ECC, said: “Today’s groundbreaking is an exciting milestone for ECC and Blyth. We have a wealth of opportunity on our doorstep, with businesses, projects and investment driving the growth of the clean energy sector across the region. ECC was established to ensure local people can access those opportunities, while giving businesses the skilled workforce they need to grow.

“The success of the ECLH has shown what can be achieved when industry, education and the community work together, and the ECI will take that ambition a step further. By creating a clear pathway from early STEM engagement through to degree and PhD level, right here in Blyth, we can help more people build the skills they need to take advantage of the opportunities on their doorstep and build successful careers in the sector.”

The ECI is part of the Energising Blyth £95 million regeneration programme to grow, renew and connect the town. It is being delivered by Northumberland County Council, funded by the UK Government, Northumberland County Council and The North East Mayoral Strategic Authority, with support from other partners.

Image with thanks from the Port of Blyth. Pictured are: students from Bede Academy and Energy Central Learning Hub, Representative from Kier construction, Ian Lavery MP, Councillor Glen Sanderson, Leader of NCC and Martin Lawlor, Chair of Energy Central Campus and CEO of Port of Blyth.