Construction officially begins at Northumberland cinema and restaurant development

Led by Advance Northumberland on behalf of Northumberland County Council (NCC), it forms a key part of the wider Regenerating Ashington Programme, a major investment designed to revitalise the town centre, strengthen the local economy and create a more vibrant place to live, work and visit. 

The development will deliver a high-quality leisure destination at the northern gateway to the town centre, including a new five-screen cinema, restaurant units and family-focused leisure and entertainment space. 

A ground-breaking event brought together senior representatives from Advance Northumberland, Northumberland County Council, and delivery partners to celebrate the start of works on the landmark scheme. 

Once complete, the scheme is expected to significantly increase footfall, extend the town’s evening and weekend economy, and provide a major boost to local businesses. 

The Cinema and Restaurants being constructed at Portland Park are being funded by UK Government, NCC and Advance Northumberland. 

Advance Northumberland has appointed Robertson Construction North East as the main contractor to deliver the £16m development, with REEL Cinemas set to operate the venue upon completion. 

The Portland Park scheme represents a major step forward in Ashington’s transformation, helping to reposition the town centre as a destination for leisure, dining and social activity. Together with significant investment already delivered, including improvements to transport connectivity, public realm and community facilities the scheme will play a crucial role in shaping a more attractive and welcoming town centre. 

Councillor Richard Wearmouth, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Northumberland County Council, said: “This is another major milestone in the regeneration of Ashington. Portland Park will provide a fantastic new leisure offer for residents and visitors, helping to strengthen the town centre and boost local businesses. 

“It represents a real vote of confidence in Ashington’s future and builds on the significant progress already being made across the town.” 

Neil Kennedy, Regional Managing Director, Robertson Construction North East, said: “Breaking ground at Portland Park marks an important step in bringing this ambitious vision for Ashington to life. Working closely with Advance Northumberland and Northumberland County Council, we will deliver a high-quality development that creates a vibrant new destination for residents and visitors, while supporting wider regeneration across the town centre. 

“As construction gets underway, delivering the project safely and with consideration for the local community will remain our priority, helping to create a destination that will have a lasting positive impact for Ashington.” 

The Portland Park Cinema and Restaurant development sits alongside other major regeneration projects, including the Wansbeck Square Gateway, forming a coordinated programme of investment aimed at revitalising the heart of Ashington. 

Together, these projects will improve connectivity, increase visitor numbers and enhance the overall experience of the town centre for residents, businesses and visitors alike. 

Steven Harrison, Chief Executive, Advance Northumberland, said: “Breaking ground at Portland Park is a hugely important moment for Ashington and for our wider regeneration ambitions. This development will bring new life to the town centre, creating a destination where people can come together to enjoy high quality leisure and entertainment.

“It reflects our commitment to delivering long-term investment that supports local communities, drives economic growth and creates places people are proud to be part of. With over 1m passengers on the new Northumberland line in its first year and the new Net Zero Northumberland College Campus set to open in Autumn with 3.500 students, Ashington is set for exciting change.” 

Sunil Suri, Director, REEL Cinemas, said: “Ashington has a rich cinema-going heritage, from the Wallaw and the Buffalo to the Regal and we want to honour that tradition at Portland Park. 

“The site marks a first for REEL, with a social and gaming space alongside the big screen, and dedicated party and karaoke rooms for families and friends. To be breaking ground in our 25th year makes the moment especially meaningful, and we are grateful to Advance Northumberland for their partnership in bringing the scheme forward - creating dozens of local jobs and a place with something for everyone, where every family can find a way to enjoy a visit that works for them.

“We are proud to play our part in Ashington's next chapter and cannot wait to welcome the community when we open our doors."

Ashington Central County Councillor Caroline Ball added: “It's great to now see spades in the ground on this site. I know residents are keen to see the area developed and we look forward to it progressing as quickly as possible.” 

John Johnston, Ashington Town Forum Chair and Chief Executive of Bernicia, added: “The work going on across Ashington will bring benefits to the whole town and it’s exciting to see work well underway at Portland Park. 

“Thanks to everyone for their support while the work is happening.”