Signs are good for Northumberland cinema complex

Robertson hosted a special steel signing ceremony to mark the completion of the building's steel structure. Guests were invited to sign a key section of the steelwork, leaving their mark on the project while celebrating its progress.

With the structural steel frame complete, the next phase of construction includes the installation of the building envelope, external walls, roofing and cladding. This will transform the structure's appearance and bring the project a step closer to becoming fully weather-tight.

Alongside the external works, the project team will begin preparing for the internal fit-out phase, including the specialist cinema spaces and associated facilities with high-quality fixings, furniture and equipment.

The project is already delivering benefits to the local community, with nine local people employed, including two apprentices and an individual previously not in education, employment or training.

Neil Kennedy, Regional Managing Director, Robertson Construction North East, said: “Reaching this milestone is an important step as the project moves closer to opening and playing a part in the wider regeneration of the town centre. 

"As main contractor, we are working in partnership with Northumberland County Council and Advance Northumberland to deliver meaningful local benefits throughout construction, so that this project's positive impact is felt before and long after its opening night.”

Councillor Glen Sanderson, Leader of Northumberland County Council, said: “I am so proud of the work we've done as a Council and to everyone who has helped this hugely important development take place.

"The building will be buzzing in a year, with a whole range of entertainment that Ashington will be proud to see up and running, in what has been a rather forgotten town for many decades.

"Well done to all those involved - I can't wait to visit it again in a year when it opens."

Steven Harrison, Chief Executive of Advance Northumberland, said: “Today marks another important step forward for Portland Park and the wider regeneration of Ashington. Seeing the steel structure completed helps turn the vision into reality and highlights the momentum behind this development. 

“Once open, it will provide new opportunities for residents and visitors, support local economic growth and play a key role in creating a thriving town centre that people can enjoy throughout the day and into the evening. We are excited to see the project progressing so well and thank all partners involved for their continued commitment.”

Sunil Suri, Director of REEL Cinemas, said: “When we first announced Ashington, we promised to bring movie magic to the heart of the town. Seeing the steel go up is the moment that promise starts to feel real. We're a family-owned business, and we want this to be somewhere the whole town uses - for a film, a night out with friends or something to do with the kids at the weekend - and a reason to come into the town centre in the evening. Thank you to Northumberland County Council, Advance Northumberland and Robertson for getting us this far.”

Ashington Central County Councillor Caroline Ball added: “The signing of the steel marks another key step in the regeneration of this part of Ashington and I look forward to its completion, alongside other schemes which are in progress across the town.”

John Johnston, Ashington Town Forum Chair, added: “We continue to thank all those in town for their support while the work is happening.

"It's a new landmark on the skyline of Ashington which is a symbol for the town's ongoing regeneration."

The development forms a key part of the wider £36m 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 cinema and restaurants being constructed at Portland Park are being funded by the UK Government, Northumberland County Council and Advance Northumberland. Robertson was awarded the project through the Procure Partnerships Framework, and REEL Cinemas is set to operate the venue upon completion.

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.

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