THE third Amazon warehouse in the region could be open and fully-functional by the end of Summer with around 1,000 jobs created.

The Northern Echo understands that the enormous site at Follingsby Max in Gateshead is set to become operational as early as September.

It is understood that work on the new 'Fulfilment Centre' will be completed in the first week of August, with the first parcels shipping the month after.

Read more: Amazon confirms warehouse at Follingsby Max in Gateshead - with 1,000 jobs expected

The Northern Echo previously reported it had already started its internal recruitment for the site, with workers at neighbouring sites offered the opportunity to transfer.

The Northern Echo:

The site is set to be completed in August, according to documents Picture: JIM SCOTT

The online retailer, which opened sites in Bowburn near Durham, and Darlington last year, does not tend to confirm an official opening date until much closer to the time. 

However, sources close to Amazon have named the September date.

Backing up claims, documents naming the main contractor, Winvic Construction LTD has revealed that the project period is set to end on August 9, 2021 - fourteen months after work began.

Read more: How to know whether your Amazon parcel is coming from Durham or Darlington

In the document it says work officially began on May 5, 2020 - coinciding with reports that the land had been sold to an Amazon subsidiary.

It comes as The Northern Echo last month revealed the huge retailer was moving onto the site, dubbed 'NCL1' after months of speculation.

At the time, the retailer said it was "pleased" to be opening its third major site in the North-East as the creation of a reported 1,000 jobs was welcomed.

The Northern Echo:

Amazon Durham, pictured, opened last year Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT

Jonathan Walker, director of policy at the North East Chamber of Commerce, welcomed the promise of new jobs to the region.

He said: “This announcement is a further endorsement of the region’s status as a great place in which to do business and builds on the strong commitment Amazon has already made to the North-East. 

"After such a difficult economic period we’re really pleased to see jobs being created that will provide opportunities to people in Gateshead and beyond”.

An Amazon spokesperson did not provide an opening date for the Gateshead site, but confirmed it would be ready this year.

They said: “Plans are progressing well and we expect to launch our new fulfilment centre in Gateshead later this year.”

The recruitment drive for jobs at the Gateshead site is expected to begin in coming weeks.