Leading engineering and manufacturing businesses in the North East have united to establish a new organisation dedicated to advancing the future of the region's data centre sector. The North East Data Centre Hub, founded by a consortium of five key firms—RED Engineering Design, Cleveland Cable Company, CMP Products, Durata, and RWO Associates—aims to foster collaboration and drive growth in this critical industry.
A Collaborative Vision for Regional Growth
The consortium shares a clear ambition to help shape the data centre sector by working together to develop a robust local engineering, construction, and digital supply chain. This initiative comes at a pivotal time, as the North East has been positioned as one of Europe's largest data centre and AI infrastructure hubs, thanks to supportive government policies, abundant energy availability, and significant investment.
With major projects underway, such as a data centre being built at Cambois near Blyth and another planned on Teesside, the region is poised for substantial expansion. The North East Data Centre Hub seeks to unlock the area's full potential as a premier data centre destination, ensuring that local businesses can capitalise on these opportunities.
Launch Event and Future Plans
To mark its inception, the consortium will host the North East Data Centre Hub's first networking event on February 25 at Liberty House in Newcastle city centre. The event has already reached full capacity, indicating strong interest from professionals across the sector. John McGee, group CEO at Durata, emphasised the hub's importance, stating, "The hub provides an excellent opportunity for professionals in the sector—from developers and operators through to consultants and suppliers—to collaborate, share innovation, and exchange best practice."
He added, "By strengthening local connections, we can amplify the North East's contribution to the wider UK and global data centre market. We are delighted with the companies spearheading this initiative, each bringing extensive global experience in delivering critical infrastructure projects." McGee highlighted that by working together and engaging with other local businesses, the consortium aims to build a resilient regional supply chain that supports long-term growth, investment, and skills development.
Expanding Opportunities Across the Ecosystem
The North East Data Centre Hub is open to organisations across the entire data centre ecosystem, with plans for a programme of bi-monthly events hosted throughout the region. These events will feature expert speakers and provide ample opportunities for discussion and networking, fostering a collaborative environment that drives innovation.
McGee noted, "With registration already reaching full capacity for our first event, it's clear there is strong appetite for a hub of this nature. Many delegates will be attending with a shared goal, and this is just the beginning. We have an exciting programme of events planned over the next 12 months, with much more to come from the North East Data Centre Hub."
This initiative represents a significant step forward in bolstering the North East's economic landscape, leveraging its strengths in engineering and manufacturing to create a thriving data centre sector that benefits the entire region.
