Ryder appointed to design Bedlington town centre

The development project has taken a major step forward with the appointment of nationally acclaimed Ryder Architecture, who will complete the design of retail, office, residential and public realm works in Bedlington town centre.

The practice, which has designed a number of high profile regional projects such as Ashington Leisure Centre, Newcastle City Library and Newcastle Central Station, were appointed following a design competition involving a judging panel of over a thousand local residents.

Local County Councillor, Alyson Wallace said “This project will breathe new life into the town centre including new retail and residential facilities with new locations for easily accessible council services and will provide new opportunities for local families to get their feet on the first rung of the housing ladder.  I’m delighted that Ryder have been appointed.  They have a proven track record in excellent quality design and I’m hoping that this exciting development for Bedlington will move on apace.”

The housing element of Ryder’s design will create a number of starter homes which local residents identified as important for families and will also address current car parking concerns.  Construction will take place over the next 18 months and is expected to create employment for up to 150 people.  The town centre development will also see council jobs and services returned to Bedlington as part of the council’s market towns initiative.

Arch chair, Dave Ledger said “The north east is covered with examples of Ryder’s buildings and we’re keen to create a new iconic town centre for Bedlington.  I’m delighted to see Bedlington investment picking up after years of failed initiatives and lots of talk.  Now we’re seeing a fruitful partnership which is making use of public and private sector investment.  Across the wider Bedlington area, investment is topping £25m which means new opportunities for residents and physical, social and economic change for Bedlington.”