The Chief Executive at Darlington Borough Council says the town is undergoing “one of the most significant periods of transformation in its history” as major projects change the landscape across the North East.
Rose Rouse was speaking to BUSINESSiQ before a key event where business leaders will talk about their plans and how they will bring pride to the region.
Guests and panellists at the breakfast event on September 25 at Darlington College - the latest in the Impact series of discussions being run by BUSINESSiQ, the business arm of The Northern Echo - will talk about how regeneration and a local focus on investment can build stronger communities.
Rose said: “Darlington is stepping into a new era, with our borough and the wider region, an exceptionally proud, innovative and unique part of the UK.
“As well as already being recognised nationally for its rail heritage and growing economic importance, Darlington is a well-connected destination, acting as a hub for many significant sectors including the civil service, innovation and research. Darlington is now building on that momentum through major public sector investment, ambitious regeneration, and a long-term vision for growth.
To reserve your free seat for the event, CLICK HERE
"Transformation of town centre spaces, investment in heritage and culture and the development of Darlington train station and the Darlington Economic Campus, demonstrates that change is not only visible, it’s accelerating.
“Darlington is undergoing one of the most significant periods of transformation in its history, with the town currently experiencing a surge in economic growth, regeneration and investment whilst strengthening its position, as one of the North East’s most connected, inclusive, vibrant and ambitious places to live, work, invest and do business. There’s much to be proud of.
“Key projects on the horizon include the introduction of the STEM centre which will provide clear pathways from school so local people can access high-value careers in science, technology, engineering and maths.
Read more
£30,000 investment in Darlington College facilities as demand for electricians soars
Military veterans gain new skills through training at Darlington College
Darlington council is 'well-run and high-performing' independent review concludes
“The facility will also enable existing businesses and large employers to recruit and upskill locally. In addition to this a significant project to redevelop key areas across the town centre is now well underway. The ambitious project will deliver mixed use sites ensuring there is new homes, workspaces, and areas for people to enjoy for many years to come.
“This work has the potential to be one of the biggest, innovative and most exciting improvement projects Darlington has seen for many years. This is a huge step forward for our town in terms of regenerating areas which we know are ripe for development and improvement, and an exciting time for Darlington as a whole, as well as ensuring connection, ambition and inclusivity remains at the heart of everything we do.
“Events like the Impact discussion are a great opportunity to bring our region together to share ideas, work together and continue our mission to be a region which continues to thrive, innovate and succeed.”
Rose will be part of a powerful panel has been brought together to discuss the key projects across the North East that will shape the future of our region.
With a new Government in place, the spotlight on Andy Burnham’s regions is brighter than ever, with his pledge to deliver power ‘into every postcode', so with a keynote conversation with the Darlington Economic Campus, the event will also look at how our own regional powerhouse is working in partnership with Government to build for the future.
The other panellists are David Gartland, Chief Executive of our hosts, Darlington College, one of the region's key education and skills providers. His experience in workforce development, skills provision and employer engagement provides an important perspective on how investment in people underpins economic success.
Rachel Anderson is Assistant Director of Policy at the North East Chamber of Commerce, representing the voice of thousands of businesses across the region, shaping policy and advocating for the needs of employers.
Mark Stamper, Head of Inclusive Growth and Partnerships, Durham County Council brings extensive experience in place-based development and collaborative working between public and private sector organisations.
Huw Lewis, Assistant Director of Communications at Kim McGuinness’s North East Mayoral Strategic Authority, has a strong understanding of the region's wider economic ambitions, investment priorities and strategic vision.
David Hodgson, UK Bus Territory Manager at Darlington engines giant Cummins, will share insight into industrial investment and how technological innovation drives economic resilience.
Sophie Walton is Director of Strategic Partnerships at CPI – the Centre for Process Innovation, working at the intersection of business, innovation and commercialisation with particular expertise in accelerating growth through collaboration.
Share