Kier has broken ground on the £18m Energy Central Institute (ECI), marking the start of construction on a transformational education and innovation facility in the heart of Blyth.
Delivered on behalf of Northumberland County Council as part of the Energising Blyth regeneration programme, the Energy Central Institute will create a state-of-the-art destination for higher education, research and technological innovation.
Located adjacent to Blyth Market Place and the new Market Pavilion, the Institute will play a pivotal role in developing the skills, knowledge and expertise needed to support the UK's transition to a low-carbon future, providing opportunities for learners to progress through higher education and into careers within the clean energy sector.
Throughout construction, Kier will work closely with local supply chain partners, education providers and the wider community to create opportunities for young people to engage with the construction industry.
The groundbreaking ceremony brought together partners from across education, industry and government, alongside local learners who the Energy Central Institute will help to train and develop.
The new facility will also strengthen collaboration between industry and academia, helping to develop the skilled workforce needed to support the region’s growing clean energy sector.
Steven Lynn, regional director for Kier Construction North & Scotland said:
The Energy Central Institute is a fantastic example of the type of projects Kier is proud to deliver; facilities that create long-term social, economic and environmental value for local communities. As a forward-thinking contractor, we recognise the critical role construction has to play in supporting the transition to net zero. Delivering a facility dedicated to clean energy education and innovation reflects our own ambitions around sustainability and leaves a lasting legacy for future generations. Just as importantly, this project gives us an opportunity to engage with young people and showcase the exciting careers available within construction and engineering. We are committed to helping develop the next generation of construction professionals, ensuring they have the skills and inspiration needed to shape the construction industry of the future.
Blyth Energy Institute will feature a flexible theatre, teaching and research spaces, offices, a community café, and a double-height atrium. The layout is designed to maximise collaboration between research and commercial ventures while achieving low carbon in operation.