NORTH East Technology Park (NETPark) continues to strengthen its reputation as a leading destination for science and technology companies, with its latest expansion due for completion this spring. This next phase of development will provide additional state-of-the-art facilities, reinforcing NETPark’s role in supporting innovative businesses at every stage of their growth journey.
A premier science park driving innovation
Located in Sedgefield, NETPark is one of the UK’s premier science and technology parks, home to a thriving ecosystem of over 40 businesses employing more than 700 people. From cutting-edge research to commercial applications, companies at NETPark are pioneering advancements in life sciences, healthcare, advanced materials, semiconductors, telecommunications, space technology and more.
The expansion is a £100m investment which will add 285,650sq.ft of new laboratory, office and technical space. The development is home to units ranging from 11,500sq.ft to 35,700sq.ft, designed to support the needs of high-growth science and technology businesses, enabling them to scale operations without leaving the region.
NETPark has cultivated an environment where start-ups can thrive, with a number of businesses evolving from small ventures into industry leaders. Among the success stories are Axcenic, Dyman and Sustainable Energy Efficient Devices (SEEDS) – companies that began as start-ups and have since expanded significantly within the park.
Filtronic and Axenic - two of the companies growing at NETPark
Axcenic specialises in the design and manufacture of high performance optical components. The company has successfully grown to be a leading provider of precision optical solutions for telecommunications and defence industries. Its success at NETPark has been driven by cutting-edge research and strong industry collaborations.
Dyman is an advanced diamond materials company that has leveraged the resources at NETPark to accelerate its growth. The company specialises in the production of high-quality synthetic diamonds for applications in electronics, semiconductors and quantum technologies. With a strong focus on innovation, Dyman’s expansion within NETPark underscores its commitment to pushing the boundaries of advanced materials technology.
Filtronic is a leader in the design and manufacturing of advanced RF, microwave and mmWave solutions for the aerospace, defence, space and telecommunications sectors. With a long-standing presence at NET-Park, Filtronic continues to push the boundaries of high-frequency technology, developing products that enable next-generation connectivity and communication networks.
SEEDS (Sustainable Energy Efficient Devices) is leading the way in developing energy-efficient technologies for sustainable power solutions. By creating ultra-low power sensor systems, SEEDS is helping to revolutionise multiple industries, including manufacturing, infrastructure monitoring and telecommunications. The company’s growth at NETPark has enabled it to refine its nanotechnology-based solutions and expand its market presence.
These success stories highlight NETPark’s role in fostering innovation and enabling businesses to scale without relocating to larger cities.
One of the key advantages of locating a business at NETPark is the unparalleled support ecosystem available. Business Durham, the business support service of Durham County Council, plays a crucial role in helping companies to grow.
Through initiatives like the Finance Durham Fund, businesses at NETPark can access vital funding to expand their operations, invest in research and development, and accelerate their commercial success. Business Durham also acts as a connector, facilitating relationships between start-ups, investors, research institutions and like-minded businesses.
Additionally, NETPark’s close ties with Durham University and the Centre for Process Innovation (CPI) provide companies with access to
cutting-edge research, development and testing resources. This collaborative approach ensures that businesses remain at the forefront of their industries, with the support and expertise needed to develop breakthrough innovations.
Supporting business expansion with scalable workspaces
NETPark offers an adaptable environment designed to support businesses at every stage of their growth journey. From incubation spaces tailored to start-ups developing cutting-edge technologies to larger, fully-equipped technical environments suited for established firms, the park provides seamless expansion opportunities.
Companies at NETPark benefit from a business-friendly infrastructure that allows them to scale operations without costly relocations or operational disruptions. The latest expansion ensures that businesses can transition between spaces effortlessly, whether upgrading from smaller office units to high-spec laboratories or expanding manufacturing capabilities within the park.
In addition to the flexible accommodation options, NETPark’s supportive ecosystem – including access to funding, collaboration with leading research institutions and networking opportunities with other tech-driven companies – creates an ideal environment for sustained growth and innovation.
The future of innovation at NETPark
With the latest phase of expansion set to open in spring, NETPark is poised to further cement its reputation as a leading hub for science and technology in the UK. The park’s continued development will provide businesses with the space, infrastructure and support needed to drive innovation and commercial success.
Companies looking to join this thriving community can take advantage of a dynamic environment that fosters collaboration, accelerates research and development and provides unparalleled business support. Whether you’re a start-up seeking an incubation space or an established company looking to scale, NETPark offers the ideal location to grow and succeed.
