Member Article

Design Centre provides £6m construction boost

Although it is yet to be completed, the Northern Design Centre has already provided a £5.75 million boost to the region’s construction industry.

The project which is being managed by Gateshead Council, has provided work for a total of 35 North East employers ranging from architects and masons, to construction firms and interior designers.

Leader of Gateshead Council, Mick Henry, said: “When complete Northern Design Centre will provide a real boost to our growing creative industries.

“But it’s probably more important than ever that our region’s construction businesses have the best possible opportunities to benefit from this prestigious project too.

Devlin Interiors is one of the many businesses working on the project, after they landed a £305,000 contract to fit the ceilings and walls for the interior. Paul Devlin commented: Obviously, with a structure so focused on creativity, the work we’ve been carrying out is heavily design-led.

“The design and aesthetics of the ceiling finishes is of an enhanced quality and the combination of plasterboard margins, bulkheads and white metal ceiling tiles gives a warm welcoming atmosphere, ensuring a relaxed working environment.”

Managing director of Finley Structures, who provided the structural steelwork, celebrated the collaboration of North East businesses. He added: “The Northern Design Centre was one of many recent high-profile projects for us and yet another fine example of local companies working together.

“During these difficult times, it’s important for local companies to support one another, and this programme at Gateshead Quays showed what can be done by a combination of top North-East firms and their staff working hand-in-hand.

The four storey building is set to be a hub for creativity in the region, and is expected to create 150 jobs.

Cllr Henry added: “The sheer variety of North East based companies involved in the construction of the Northern Design Centre speaks volumes for the diverse and high quality businesses and their abilities.

“I’m very proud that this unique building will not only be a showcase for our creative talents but also for our constructional ones for many years to come.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .