Project Title: Queens Meadow Site Development

Project Description:
Queens Meadow is a 65 hectare business park (with the first 30 acres completed subject to phase 1 enhancements) that is viewed as being particularly important to the diversification of the Hartlepool economy. The site is well connected both in terms of transport infrastructure and its relationship with some of the most deprived neighbourhoods in the town. There is a significant opportunity to encourage high quality design in the development of the site and this commitment to quality will be indicative of the town’s aspirations to attract entrepreneurial, high-tech, knowledge-based businesses to the area. At the present time, Hartlepool’s ability to compete effectively for this type of investment is hampered by a lack of high profile, attractive business locations.

The first phase of work at Queens Meadow has been completed and this has resulted in provision of infrastructure and servicing for some 12 hectares. A second phase will be critical in ensuring the successful take-off of the site. In developing this project the following key activities have been identified:

• Further infrastructure works – including high-quality hard and soft landscaping, public art, signage, surfacing, lighting and security works and broadband;
• Marketing initiatives – the implementation of the marketing strategy that will assist in targeting sectors and potential investors, leading to a focused campaign of advertising and direct marketing.
• This approach is considered effective in that it will enhance and add value to the first phase infrastructure works whilst promoting an active programme that will secure business investment.
  £1,250,000 private sector investment in the site has already been secured through the development of the first two units on Queens Meadow.

Lead Organisation (underlined) and Key Partners:
Hartlepool Borough Council, One NorthEast, Priority Sites