NETPark opens £7.4m Explorer facility to attract tech firms to region

A new £7.4m development designed to be a home for high tech businesses has opened in County Durham.

The new Explorer facilities were officially opened by Stuart Martin, chief executive of the Satellite Applications Catapult, who visit the centre at its base at the North East Technology Park (NETPark).

The Explorer building has already proven to be a success after winning two new tenants, X-ray imaging specialist Ibex and electronics firm PragmatIC, before its official opening.

Coun Simon Henig, leader of Durham County Council, said: “NETPark is already home to some of the world’s most innovative businesses and the Explorer development will open up even greater opportunities for companies to grow and flourish here.

“This expansion demonstrates our commitment to creating a bright future for people who live, work and study in County Durham and we are confident these new facilities will attract further investment to our region.”

NETPark is the only science park in the UK to boast two catapult centres – High Value Manufacturing, the catalyst for the future growth and success of manufacturing, and Satellite Applications, which supports companies by opening up opportunities using satellite data and technology.

The building was opened after Business Durham received a £3.2m investment from the North East Local Enterprise Partnership’s Local Growth Fund.

Brian Archer, managing director of Business Durham said: “NETPark offers a dynamic environment for high-tech companies wanting to make a big impact in global markets. The exceptional facilities at the Explorer development only strengthens its offering to companies wanting to grow and locate here going forward.”

The Explorer development forms part of a 10-year strategy for NETPark, which includes creating 3,000 jobs and adding another £400m to region’s Gross Value Added.

Helen Golightly, executive director at the North East LEP, said: “This is an exciting time for the North East as we work to grow our economy and we’re delighted that we’ve been able to support Business Durham to bring forward the new Explorer facilities on NETPark.

“NETPark has been a major focus of our innovation investment programme and is a premier location for product research and development, enabling the creation of more and better jobs.”