Member Article

New office space fit for purpose

The Coalfields Regeneration Trust (CRT) is continuing its work helping to re-shape communities with the launch a new programme focusing on healthy living from its new office at the North East Business and Innovation Centre (BIC).

The registered charity set up to support communities facing significant challenges as a result of the demise of the coal industry has invested 33 million in the region since it started in 1999 and its latest programme continues this tradition by helping to promote health and fitness opportunities to young people.

Anna Wilkie, Healthy Lifestyles Officer, has been appointed to run the programme and will be delivering physical activity sessions in the area; she will also be working with volunteers to help promote healthy lifestyles.

Anna said: “Good health and wellbeing is of key importance in the North East and this project is specifically designed to help improve the way people feel about themselves. This will involve creating healthy futures for people by not only looking at fitness but by also up skilling them with self esteem and confidence.

“We hope to work with over 500 young people, making the North East BIC the ideal location as it is based in the centre of the communities that we serve. It is also fantastic for meeting likeminded people and companies, an excellent place to build networks.

David Howell, Director of Operations at the North East BIC, commented: “The BIC itself was built to help re-generate an area devastated by the closure of traditional industries; today it is a major employer with over 1,000 people working on site. I therefore have the greatest admiration for the work CRT does to help revitalise communities. Likewise I appreciate the importance of working with young people as it is vital to open up opportunities for the next generation.”

Whilst developing new initiatives with partners CRT also currently offer grants of up to £5K is available for small voluntary groups who operate in ex coalfields communities for more information contact 0800 0648560.

The BIC offers a range of commercial property options with flexible tenancy agreement. Business space across the site ranges from 6000 sq ft industrial units to 150 sq ft small office space to let, perfect for start-up, expanding and well-established businesses. To arrange a site visit and view the variety of business space available, please call Donna Surtees on 0191 516 6066 or email space@ne-bic.co.uk

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Sarah Spence .