Signs are good for Ashington cinema complex

Another milestone has been reached on the Portland Park cinema and restaurant development in Ashington. 

A special “steel signing” ceremony has now taken place to mark the completion of the external steel structure of the building – a construction tradition where guests are invited to sign their name on a key piece of the metalwork. 

The flagship £16m 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. 

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. 

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 cinema and restaurants being constructed at Portland Park are being funded by UK Government, the County Council and Advance Northumberland. 

Robertson Construction North East is the main contractor, with REEL Cinemas set to operate the venue upon completion. 

Nine local people have been employed by Robertson Construction, including two apprentices and an individual previously not in education, employment or training.   

Councillor Glen Sanderson, Leader of Northumberland County Council said: “It's great to see the scheme progressing so well, and the completion of the steels heralds another major milestone in the regeneration of both this site and Ashington. 

“It will provide a fantastic new leisure offer for residents and visitors, supporting other local businesses and helping boost the town centre economy. 

“As work continues it's good to see local people and local businesses have been used throughout construction.” 

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.” 

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.” 

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." 

More information about the Regenerating Ashington Programme can be found at: nland.uk/arp