DERWENTSIDE Business 06 07 & / Community DIRECTORY Background Information con t en t s Premise, by Right Honorable Hilary Armstrong 3 Derwentside the District 5 “If we do what Introduction, by LSP Chair, Alex Watson 7 we’ve always Business & Economy done then we’ll A great place for business 9 only get what Derwentside economic profile 11 we’ve always Business support and partnerships 3 got” Flagship projects (Emerge, Beacon, Agility, Enterprise Place) 15 Tom Baker Your business matters 17 Education Lifelong Learning and education 19 Community Safety Safety in the community 19 E d it or Miles Crofton In the Best of Health 0191 586 6010 [email protected] Healthy living for a healthy lifestyle 19

Exxecu t ivve Eddit oor Housing & Environment Sarah J Lee An environment for success 19 [email protected] Childcare counts 19 Ed it oria l Paul Seales You and your Council 19 [email protected] Transport and communication 19

A dv ertisin g & Sponsorship Time out with tourism, leisure and shopping 19 Andrew White 0191 5866 040 Miscellaneous Case Studies 19 Bank Holidays 19 Derwentside Business & Community Directory is published by informnorth creative services, Calendar 2006 19 a County Durham based community interest company. We have taken all reasonable care to Conversions 19 ensure that material is accurate at the time of going to press, but accept no responsibility for Dialling Codes 19 errors or omissions and no liability is accepted for omission or failure from any cause. Travelling distances to UK centres 19 The publisher has welcomed contributions in production of this directory, all opinions UK& Ireland airports list 19 expressed are those of individual contributors and not necessarily our own. All advertisements Details Form 19 have been accepted on the grounds that they comply with the terms of the Trade Descriptions Act 1968 and all other relevant legislation. Additional professional advice should always be sought before making any commitment to business transactions or advice detailed within Derwentside Business & Community Directory. Inclusion of any advertisement cannot be Business is all about communication. To promote your business or organisation within the next issue of construed as an endorsement of an advertiser or a product by the publisher, their employees the Derwentside Business & Community Directory call Mike Storey today on 0191 5866 010 or their agents. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for any transactions between readers and advertisers. All content©informnorth creative services, no material in this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written consent from the publisher. Printed by Potts Printers Ltd. P rem ise premise Welcome to the 2006 edition of the Derwentside Business Directory, which is aimed at uniting business and the wider community. I would like to extend a special thanks to all of the businesses and organisations that have contributed and supported what is an unique publication. This directory will help bridge some of the gaps that exist between our businesses and communities, and the firms involved have seized on a glorious opportunity to aid the area’s development, communication Rt. Hon. Hilary Armstrong Member of Parliament for North and future prosperity. West Durham It’s been a real privilege to represent part of Derwentside at Westminster for the past 18 years, which during the last two decades have certainly seen some changes and some challenging times here in the district. It’s 25 years since Consett Steel There are many success stories, Works closed leaving the area companies such as CAV Aerospace without its major employer and (formerly AS&T) now employing 250 local businesses without their major in Consett, Romag Security customer. The early eighties were Laminators employing 150 at tough as businesses either closed or Leadgate and now listed on the restructured and unemployment hit stock market, and the Tanfield a staggering 26 per cent. Group employing nearly 400 people in Tanfield. All this comes in addi- Now, in marked contrast to those tion to many earlier successes dark and gloomy days, including leading food companies Derwentside’s local economy is such as Derwent Valley Foods and stronger, more broadly based and International Cuisine, and newer boasts a rwider ange of modern technology companies such as businesses holding their own in Bioprocessing. global markets. Unemployment is now down to levels not seen for Derwentside really is an area where generations. businesses can thrive. It’s a district with great potential and excellent These successes haven’t come links to the rest of the North East. easily. In large part, it reflects the More importantly it offers a good outcome of the major industrial and quality of life for employees and economic development programme their families, with access to truly launched in the immediate stunning and beautiful surroundings, aftermath of the closure of the especially the North Pennines, an steelworks but it also reflects the area of outstanding natural beauty. strong determination of business owners, employees and community In addition, the regeneration of our leaders to succeed. towns and villages is providing new housing, better amenities, and I’m always impressed when I visit improved public services. workplaces across Derwentside by the dedication and ambition of With serious unemployment largely employers and employees. In recent a thing of the past, optimism has years, we’ve seen the growth and returned to the area. There are of development of local businesses course still challenges to face, not punching their weight at a national least in tackling the skill shortages in and international level. Businesses the area and through publications are prepared to invest in research such as The Derwentside Business and development to ensure their Directory I am confident that products become leaders in their Derwentside has a great story to tell fields. and a very bright future ahead of it.

The Derwentside Business Directory 5 houses were built (60 houses for The earliest remains in this area are stoney clearing and it was probably miners at the Pontop Colliery). In the of prehistoric date and a number of an Anglo-Saxon settlement. mid 1800s more and deeper mines artifacts have been discovered. Stanley really owed its growth to were built, including the South During the Roman period coalmining. The inhabitants relied Derwent Colliery in 1872. Lanchester became the site of the on the six collieries within the town During the 19th century the village Roman fort known as Longovicium. itself and another forty within a grew in size, and many new build- Archaeologists have found the two miles radius for employment. ings and businesses were estab- remains of the headquarters lished including a brewery, a mill, a buildings, a bathhouse and some Ebchester candle factory, a school, a Church of barrack buildings. It was built in the Ebchester is a small parish, mid 1st century AD and was in use England church and Primitive separated from Northumberland through the 2nd and 3rd centuries Methodist and Methodist chapels. by the river Derwent. It lies about AD. The remains of the large stone The old Stanhope and Tyne railway 12 miles to the south-west of walls can still be seen in places. was remembered in a 19th century Newcastle. Although a Neolithic pub of the same name, which stood In the Anglo-Saxon period it is handaxe has been found in the area, by the level crossing over the Old possible that the Roman fort was the village is best known for the Stanhope and Tyne railway. re-used. The name of the village Roman fort on which it now stands. included part of the name of the fort The fort was known by the Roman ‘Longovicium’ as well as the word Burnopfield name of Vindomora. Unfortunatley, ‘ceastre’, which is the Old English Until the 19th century Burnopfield there is now little to be seen as for ‘Roman Fort’. was part of the larger parish of most of the site has been built over. Tanfield. Like many Durham villages There were other settlements in The church of St Ebba stands in the the surrounding area, as well as it expanded in size with the growth southern corner of the site. There Lanchester, there may have been of the coal industry - this population has been relatively little research on a medieval settlement at Tanfield, growth led to it becoming a separate this fort, although several Roman parish. which originally had two rows of houses with a green between them. altars and other carved stones are Before the building of the large Other villages probably also stood known to be from the site of the collieries in the mid-19th century at Newbiggin and Colepike Hall. church. the district of Burnopfield was a quite rural area. During the medieval period the area The village is probably of remained rural. The isolated, yet Anglo-Saxon origin- the name Stanley attactive, landscape encouraged ‘Burnopfield’ comes from the Old Stanley is an industrial town derwentside lying on a hilltop between many hermits to come here and the English meaning ‘open land by the valley stream’. The originally village Chester-le-Street and Consett. Much area was once known as the ‘place was quite small, stretching from of the surrounding landscape was of the anchorites’. Busty Bank and Sheephill to Bryan’s changed by coal mining. However, The River Derwent itself played an Leap. The turnpike road from Lobley the mines are all shut now, and important part in the history of the Hill was the only road running the old spoilheaps have been village. Several water-powered mills landscaped and grassed over. he birth of Derwentside District County Durham, centered on a hill Langley Park. through the area. are recorded in the 18th and 19th Council really came about in top between Chester-le-Street and In the 17th century narrow gauge Prehistoric remains have been dis- century. A corn mill stood at Mill Annfield Plain covered in this area. We know little T1974 as a result of local Consett. It is the second largest The area that is now the village of wagon-ways were laid from the pit- Lane, and a fulling mill and a Stick about the kind of settlements in Government reorganisation. At the town of Derwentside after Consett Annfield Plain was originally part heads and Burnopefield was found mill are also known, several bridges which they lived. It is thought that time the Councils of Consett, and lies near the border with of Lanchester Common. Most of to be the ideal place for these to are also known. they probably dwelled in a simple Stanley and Lanchester came Gateshead. the land was rough pasture or pass through. As the area became The rural nature of the village a focal point people began to move wooden round houses. This kind of together to form the authority of As the town has no definite end woodland. Very little is known about continued throughout the there. settlement continued to be used Derwentside, named after the River and stretches right into what were this area in the prehistoric, Roman post-medieval period and through Derwent. and medieval periods. Later building The oldest house in the village is throughout prehistory. By the Iron to the present day. The remains of formerly neighbouring villages Age the small clusters of these Its main towns are Consett and and towns, there’s been a lot of and industrial development has Burnopfield Hall, built in 1720 by several post-medieval buildings still undoubtedly destroyed a lot of the Newton family, a wealthy coal houses would have been survive today, such as Demesne Stanley, with the rest of the district confusion in the past over which surrounded by a simple enclosure. being semi-rural, with numerous part of the council was responsible earlier remains. owning family. In 1775 the first Farm and West Law and the large former pit villages running into one for certain areas. The earliest buildings in the area Methodist Chapel was built, later Stanley was first mentioned as Ebchester Hall. were probably those of sheep rebuilt in 1880 and then in 1870 a ‘Stanlegh’ and is derived from Old another. In the past Stanley used to be farmers from the 1500 and 1600s. second Methodist chapel and in English, ‘Staenig-leah’, meaning The River Derwent is one of the divided into three, the main town Mining was established from the 1873 an Anglican church were also most prominent features of the of Stanley, and the mining villages late 1600s and became the main built. district and is on the boarder of East Stanley and South Stanley. industry in the area, with many between County Durham and However, with the expansion of all shallow mines being dug. The Lanchester Northumberland. The Derwent is a three they have blended into one growth of mining led the laying The village of Lanchester lies in the very scenic, well wooded area, its town and East and South Stanley of the Stanhope and Tyne Railway valley of the River Browney around are no longer officially used town ancient British name ‘Dere Went’ in 1834, which allowed the eight miles to the west of Durham. names. means ‘river where oaks grew’. transportation of coal. This ancient parish was formerly Consett is a medium-sized town, Along with these two major towns The village name, was originally very extensive, comprising no less which is perched on the steep in the Derwentside district there are Anfield, but it was later changed to than fifteen townships, and four eastern bank of the River Derwent. a number of smaller villages also Anfield Plane following the building chapelries; all the latter are now Its origins are steeped in industrial located around the district these are of the railway on ‘the Plane’ entirely independent parishes, whilst development due to the lead mining, Lanchester, Shotley Bridge, between Annfield Plain, Oxhill and of the townships there remain only and later on steel industry in the Ebchester, Tanfield, Annfield Plain, Stanley. In 1856 the spelling was Lanchester, Langley, parts of Greencroft, and Burnhope and area, dating back hundreds of years. Knitsley, South Moor, Craghead, changed to the ‘Annfield Plain’, and Hamsteels. Stanley, a former mining town in Castleside, Satley, Esh Village and it was around this time that the first

6 2006 Derwentside Business Directory 2006 Derwentside Business Directory 7 imaginative scheme called Project that residents and visitors can now The council has recently kicked off an In t rodu ction Genesis. This was a private sector explore Derwentside by foot, by IT consultancy project aimed at In t rodu ction partnership that was visionary and cycle and horseback. For the most providing local companies with In t rodu ction challenging. Project Genesis was the adventurous, the C-to-C route, with expert advice for IT in their business. name that had been given to the sculpture trail, runs through the This ranges from mini IT audits and Derwentside is situated in the North forward to, and whilst the steelworks redevelopment of the Consett district, offering cyclists one of the software guidance to networking East of England and is bordered by had been run down over the previous steelworks site, encompassing most challenging rides ever. and systems, Internet and web industry, housing and leisure, indeed the districts of Chester-le- Street, years, there was still over 4300 people Water sports, fishing, numerous golf development to data protection and Durham City, Tynedale and Wear employed at that time. all aspects of the built environment, courses and activity centres, mean good practice guidelines. All can be Valley in addition to the Metropolitan and was Europe’s first comprehensive there is something for everyone in Assurances had been given that there implemented into businesses at any area of Gateshead and the County of green development. It was a Derwentside. Derwentside really does wouldn’t be a closure if it was in the stage whether it’s basic help or Northumberland; it covers an area black (making profit) and by all sustainable approach to development have it all, we now have some of the advanced networking requirements. of approximately 105 square miles, accounts it was, but it simply didn’t with objectives to resolve problems in most un-spoilt countryside and most with its main towns situated only 30 matter. The people had been let down three areas - social, environment and beautiful landscapes in the country; There is no doubting that the future combine this with the beautiful Clr. Alex Watson, Chair, minutes away from Newcastle and terribly and with the knock on effect economy, and at the same time of Derwentside is in safe hands, the Derwentside Local 20 minutes from Durham City. to heavy industry, i.e. companies that sustainable aims to improve quality of Derwent Valley, which is the least council through the development Strategic Partnership The district has a strong industrial were dependent on work from British life based on a broad definition giving known to the region but is yet one of programme has to-date successfully heritage including the world’s earliest Steel, over 10,000 jobs had been lost. equal weight to social, environmental, the most stunning. Whether it is a walk along the banks of the river or a assisted 219 new businesses to create introduction and economic factors, that would see railway at Tanfield, Stanley. The histo- Couple this with the mining jobs that 6,735 new jobs. The continued role emission free industry as well as day out at a Roman Fort or a shopping ry of Derwentside and its district coun- had been lost over the previous years for the council in the modernisation leisure, housing and office trip, there is always something to do. cil are important if the true extent of since the late 1940’s which were well of the local economy is highlighted in adversity and the depressive years over 14,000 and this gives you some accommodation development. Whilst there is still work to be done in the Derwentside Economic that the people of the area had to idea of the scale of the problem that Work commenced soon afterwards making our town centres and villages Development Strategy as essential for endure because of industrial decline. we were faced with. As if we had not and to date over £45 million of more attractive we are without doubt making significant progress. the long-term prosperity of the area. Consett was an area steeped in been clobbered enough, Central investment has been attracted to the Unemployment has been dealt with Furthermore we are having a greater steelmaking dating back to 1840 and Government decided to close down site with the potential to attract as although low wage is still an issue. focus on the well known for its pollution and filth the remaining branch line to Consett. much again, and to be used as a The 17th March, 1984, was the date The population decline has been development of new knowledge and was eventually to become the tool to promote the rest of the arrested and is now in a growth the last train ran to Consett. based businesses with growth main employer in Derwentside. At its district, and to date we now have situation; new housing estates are peak over 6000 people were employed The heavy industry in Derwentside virtually full employment. continuing to be developed, people potential in Derwentside and the with a significant dependency on had left large areas of dereliction, Conversion of the railway are moving back into the area, thus improved competitiveness of good heavy industry and mining, as the which had to be cleared in order for lines- reopened as walkways, cycle instilling a feeling of confidence for the quality companies already based in Consett Iron Company itself owned the district to become an attractive routes and bridal ways, has meant future. the area. many pits and houses rented by their location for investors and a safe employees. There was constant environment for the local community. pollution of the environment. The integrated strategy to put The heavy dust clouds (known as the Derwentside back on its feet has red menace) which were caused by included the expansion of the district’s the red oxide used in the leisure services during the 1970’s and manufacturing process of making early 1980’s. The collapse of iron and steel, combine this with coal employment in the district led to a dust and the acid rain caused through breakdown in the social structure, sulphur dioxide emissions meant that which had revolved around the not only was the environment being mines or the steelworks. destroyed, but that people’s health The district council stepped in with was seriously at risk. a scheme targeted at alleviating the Much of the housing in Derwentside isolation of the unemployed, together consisted historically of properties, with recreation led initiatives in built either by the Consett Iron support of the overall push to convert Company (later British Steel) or the Derwentside into an environment of pit owners (later British Coal) to house success. All of these initiatives were their workers. Many units were co-ordinated to a central aim of sub-standard which led to major slum stemming the tide of out migration, clearance initiatives, particularly by rejuvenating the economy on a more the former Consett Urban District robust basis than before, and creating Council and Stanley Urban District the environment which would help Council during the 1950’s-1970’s. In the economy to obtain critical mass their place, local authority housing and become self sustaining. was constructed, some of which was This was the trigger for the redefinition built cheaply and has suffered from of the area into an attractive and high problems associated with subsidence, quality retail and leisure centre backed ground heave, roof decay and wall by employment into the most modern tie failure as a result of construction green industries. What better contrast methods, mining and air pollution to the days of the steelworks and the from heavy industry. mines when the area was best known When the steelworks closed in 1980 for its pollution and dirt. we also lost our last deep mine. This During 1992 it was agreed by the caused unemployment to go through council that the steel works site the ceiling with virtually no prospects (known as Berry Edge) was in need of of finding work locally, people were a new approach which would see the devastated with no future to look council in 1993, embarking on a very

8 2006 Derwentside Business Directory 2006 Derwentside Business Directory 9 Derwentside Economic Profile A Great Place For Business Although Derwentside is Derwentside industry breakdown: undoubtably a very picturesque and beautiful green area within irtually undiscovered, Derwentside is only about Co. Durham DH8 6SR the North East, it also manages to eight miles from Newcastle and boasts some Leadgate Industrial Estate Lope Hill Road, Leadgate conceal on the whole, a thriving Vof England’s most beautiful and unspoiled Consett, County Durham DH8 7RN economy and vibrant business landscapes and yet tucked discreetly away among its Bradley Industrial Estate Leadgate Consett, environment. 0.5% great open spaces are over 30 modern industrial parks. County Durham DH8 6HG With a population of just over 85,000 0.2% Situated on the Durham and Northumberland border, Park Road Industrial Estate, Consett, people Derwentside only makes up it is easily accessed by all of the major roads, the A68 County Durham DH8 5PY 3.4% of the population in the North 29.9% in the west and the A1 in the east. Castleside Industrial Estate, Consett, East, and has a relatively low 7.1% Derwentside allows you to significantly cut your travel County Durham DH8 8JA population density. time to and from work, experience virtually no traffic or Grove Industrial Estate Castleside Road, Consett, Historically, the area has also been 20.7% parking problems and enjoy working in an environment County Durham DH8 8BH found to be a very safe place to live with fields and trees as scenery instead of the hustle Watling Street Industrial Estate, Leadgate Consett, with a falling crime rate which is 5.7% and bustle of city life. County Durham DH8 6TA well below national averages in most areas. 7.1% Locating to Derwentside will provide businesses the Annfield Plain/Stanley: right foundation for success but is also about improving Morrison Industrial Estate, Annfield Plain, Stanley, Although this low rural population 22.7% County. Durham DH9 7RU your overall quality of life. might point towards a poor Tanfileld Industrial Estate North Stanley, economic activity rate, this is not so. 6.1% It is an area that offers modern and thriving business County Durham DH9 9NX Derwentside is higher than the facilities in traditional and hi-tech industries plus an Craghead Industrial Estate, Craghead, Stanley, national average and North East unparalleled quality of life with lots of wide-open spaces County Durham DH9 6HB average for economic activity. and beautiful views - yet only 20 minutes from the Gateshead Metro Centre and 30 minutes from Newcastle Greencroft Industrial Estate, Stanley, It also has a very strong rate of County Durham DH9 7XP city centre. employment and low number of job Harelaw Industrial Estate, Stanley, seekers claimants. Derwentside is There is a wide range of support services available County Durham DH9 8UJ therefore an ideal place to establish and Derwentside District Council provides a number VAT registrations: Business Parks and build a business, with good of services for new businesses, delivering what is really Derwentside Business Centre, Consett Business Park transport connections, excellent 160 (10.3%) new registrations - (national average 10.6%) needed wherever it is best placed to do so. Villa Real, Consett, Co. Durham DH8 6BP business support and a beautiful 115 (7.4%) de-registrations - (national average 9.7%) Through the Council, new and existing businesses in Prospect Business Park Leadgate, Consett, setting. Derwentside can have easy access to general support Co. Durham DH8 7PW services that range from having their needs analysed, gaining more specialist advice or mentoring, as well as help with property advice or the more general needs Total Population: 85,600 of a modern business. They also offer office support services, administration and ICT support, as well as Percentage age breakdown of population: bespoke training for a clients’ individual needs. Aged Derwentside England/Wales Under 16 19.2 20.2 Just as importantly, they are also a great source for 16 to 19 4.7 4.9 financial information such as incentives and grants 20 to 29 10.6 12.6 and help toward a businesses’ growth costs. 30 to 59 42.6 41.5 Over the last 25 years Derwentside District Council 60 to 74 14.8 13.3 has played a key role in supporting businesses and 75 and over 8.1 7.6 Average age 40.1 38.6 encouraging an entrepreneurial culture. The thousands of jobs created, the diversity of the economy and the Ethnic breakdown innovative links between enterprise and education White: 99.4% demonstrate how progress has been made. Largest ethnic group: 0.1% (Indian) Percentage of working age in employment: 74.5%, The council has consistently shown how what is after all, (Against NE average of 70.2%) a small authority, can be highly effective when working Number of Job Seekers allowance claimants: 2.2% in partnership to carry through a vision for the future. (Against NE average of 2.9%) It’s an area where new business is positively welcomed Economic Activity but so too is the expansion of existing and more Resident population aged 16 to 74 (percentage) established commercial concerns - can you think of a Derwentside England/Wales better place to get started with your new or existing Employed 56.7 60.6 business? Unemployed 3.9 3.4 Economically active full time students If you would like to know more about starting a business 1.7 2.6 in Derwentside or if you are an established company and Retired 4.7 13.6 looking for accommodation and a better quality of life, Economically inactive students contact The Development Team direct on 3.0 4.7 (01207) 218299 or e-mail them - Looking after home/family [email protected] 6.4 6.5 Permanently sick or disabled Industrial Sites in region include: 10.2 5.5 Conset: Delves Lane Industrial Estate Consett, County Economically inactive Durham DH8 9HU 3.3 3.1 Number One Industrial Estate, Consett,

10 2006 Derwentside Business Directory 2006 Derwentside Business Directory 11 support for you and your business

erwentside Local Strategic Partnership and the including direct grants from the council and securing district council are constantly working hard and grant support from other organisations, and they also Dstriving to improve the general economy of the offer advice on implementing a marketing plan and whole area. promotional activity. A strong economy increases prosperity in the region The council offers ICT advice to encourage better and boosts the standard of living in the district and there use, including e-trading, Broadband Internet, system are a great many support organisations out there to help networking leading to improved business performance new and established businesses. and operational efficiency. Over the last 25 years Derwentside District Council They also offer advice on properties for the business, has been involved with various organisations and taken office support such as office administration and several significant actions to support new businesses secretarial support as well as sourcing and lending in the district. specialist equipment. To deliver this support the council has a Business The council’s team works hard to help and support Development Team that provides business advice, business start-ups, relocation schemes and the marketing support, information and communication development of existing businesses in the district. technology (ICT) advice and financial assistance in the They work with local training providers, funding bodies, form of grants, loans and equipment hire. community groups, business centres and travel providers The support available includes financial support, to present all kinds of support for all types of businesses. Derwentside Council has set up a number of projects to help with the development or start up of a business in the district. A funding project - Funding Factors - was designed to provide financial incentives that can be used to help out during the initial or development stages. The idea is that when these local businesses strengthen so to will the economic growth in the region. “There are many different ways to help businesses but funding is often top of the lists. Our project is putting the funding where companies need it most and helps strengthen the districts growth,” said Joanne Urquhart Arnold, Business Development Officer, who co-ordinates the project at Derwentside District Council. Small and medium businesses have been accessing marketing advice since 1999 through a specialist project - Building Awareness - which was designed to provide professional support, as well as assist with the development and marketing expertise of the businesses in the district. “We have been providing effective marketing support since we discovered there was a gap in the market for that type of advice in Derwentside. “We have had some amazing positive feedback from companies who have used the provision and taken advice, once again we can put something back into region by helping business development.” Andrea McGuigan, Marketing Advice Officer. The Marketing Advice Project develops the marketing expertise of businesses in the area, provides intensive advice and support and aids the growth and competitiveness of businesses. The project contributes towards the increase in

12 2006 Derwentside Business Directory employment levels and job sustainability in the district. development of local education, skills and enterprise, Since 2001, 163 businesses have been given marketing and is supporting measures that improve low levels of advice, the project has helped create 123 new jobs and educational attainment, enhance local skills availability, the businesses implementing the advice have promote concepts and spirits of enterprise and create uplifting collectively increased their turnover by £5.6 million. greater linkages between education and enterprise. Derwentside District Council has also established an IT consultancy project aimed at providing local companies with expert advice for IT in their business. This ranges Business Grants from mini IT audits and software guidance to networking and systems, internet and web development to data Business Grants offered by the Council include: protection and good practice guidelines. All this can be • A Business Growth Grant which will support the implemented into a business at any stage whether it’s start-up, expansion or improved performance of basic help or advanced networking requirements. businesses in Derwentside Derwentside District Council is totally committed to • An Emerge Project Support Package encouraging and supporting new businesses, as well The levels of support provided through either a Business as assisting existing businesses that want to expand. Growth Grant or an Emerge Project Support Package Because of their pledge to businesses, the council offers would be a grant - or equivalent - of up to 40% of a two types of business grants. A Business Growth Grant business’s proposed investment in a project to increase will support the start-up, expansion or improved productive capacity, performance or competitiveness. performance of businesses in Derwentside. Also there’s To be eligible for financial incentives any business would an Emerge Project Support package, which provides need to demonstrate that they would add value to the support for the development of entrepreneurs. District’s economy, typically by mainly selling to a But to be eligible for financial help, any business would market that is beyond Derwentside and immediate need to demonstrate that they would add value to the surrounding area, thus avoiding the displacement of district’s economy, typically by mainly selling to a market existing economic activity within the District. Projects that is beyond Derwentside and immediate surrounding would also need to: area, thus avoiding the displacement of existing economic activity within the district. • Have an acceptable business/improvement plan demonstrating business/project viability and impact Businesses must also have an acceptable business or derwentside expansion plan which demonstrates business viability • Demonstrate a need for financial incentives in order to and impact, as well as show a need for financial enable a project to proceed incentives in order to enable a project to proceed. • Receive an offer of incentives before a commitment is over 440 new businesses creating in BUSINESS CREATION Business Link has been designed to The council has worked with a number of organisations made to implementing a project excess of 890 jobs within County Business Creation is Business Link ensure it delivers direct and and implemented strategic actions to support the The Council is also able to assist companies with Durham. County Durham’s online events and meaningful support and is tailored Financial Packaging, including securing grant support to meet the needs of the business in “Running your own business can be workshops for potential or exiting from other organisations such as County Durham its crucial early years. a most rewarding experience, but business owners. It gives potential Development Company and One North East, to ensure whatever line of business you are business owners access to a wide They also provide analysis of the investment projects are viable. The Business Support viability of your business idea, the in, competition is tough. Accessing variety of events and workshops in Team also leads the Emerge Project which provides development of a business plan for good quality business advice, County Durham, start-up fact sheets, support for the development of e-entrepreneurs. and helpful tips on starting their success, guidance on marketing, support and training, both at the advice on financial planning and Through facilitation of practical e-business advice and start up stage and as your business own business. the implementation of development and training continuing hands-on support. grows, will significantly increase the Starting a new business always has solutions, the Emerge Project ensures individuals are The Business Creation web site will chances of the business surviving. an element of risk and you’ll still equipped with the skills and knowledge required to run enable, like minded individuals, need lots of personal commitment, a successful e-business. In addition, the Emerge Project “By utilising the expertise of the access to free workshops and events enterprise agencies and start up as well as carry out a careful can provide bespoke funding support for software and within County Durham with the providers like Derwentside Industrial assessment to make sure that the equipment purchases. emphasis on start-up support Development Agency and A4e business really is viable. and business advice, as well as Consult Ltd, Business Link in County Business Link, in conjunction with provide support and advice in the BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Durham are here to help you Business Creation, are able to offer early stages of starting a business. BUSINESS LINK succeed by making advice, support free be-spoke advice and support in Business Link County Durham (BLCD) aims to support and training as accessible and these initial stages of starting a DERWENTSIDE LOCAL STRATEGIC local businesses to reach their full potential. From initial effective as possible,” said Edward business. PARTNERSHIP establishment, they aim to help business start ups avoid Smith, Enterprise Projects Manager, For a number of years local Through the utilisation of the many all obstacles so the business enters the market place Business Link County Durham authorities, public sector agencies, awareness workshops and events in successfully. A4e is a national organisation which the voluntary and community sector County Durham, the bespoke And when the business begins growing, Business Link aims to improve peoples’ lives. On (VCS) sectors, and the business behalf of the Small Business business start-up support, and the can help identify what support is needed in order for the sector have worked together to Service, A4e currently delivers the continuation of business support regenerate Derwentside. Various business to be competitive, dynamic, and profitable. Business Link Service in Durham from Business Link County Durham, development programmes have Whatever support is required BLCD find the right service, and Humber. ensures the survivability and aimed to tackle a range of key issues at the right price to ensure it makes the maximum They also aim to bring innovation sustainability of new businesses. such as improving the environment, positive impact on the business. to their customer offering, through After initially assessing the business strengthening the economy, Over the past three years, Business Link County Durham breaking down the boundaries of idea viability, Business Link can help increasing educational achievement, has worked alongside its partner providers in achieving traditional business support. The with advice and support through the improving community safety and over 1,000 new business starts. This accomplishment is specific areas of expertise range early stages of a business start up. supporting communities. a solid foundation on which to commence the next from, from information on exporting And despite which area you wish to These partnerships have achieved phase in supporting those people who are considering to marketing, from using computer work within Business Link will look very good results. starting a new business. In the last 12 months Business and IT to comparing your at all the options and help with all The economy is much stronger than Link, with help from its partner providers, has started performance. important decisions. in the 1980s, Derwentside has a

14 2006 Derwentside Business Directory 2006 Derwentside Business Directory 15 local, voluntary and community organisations, liaison, representation and development work. Based around these functions, CVS provides support and back up to local voluntary and community action with practical services such as photocopying, use of computers and meeting rooms. They will keep the local community informed about the local voluntary sector, as well as providing advice and support on funding, finances, staff, volunteers and charity registration. They also offer training courses for local voluntary groups and can give advice on other training opportunities locally, as well as providing a Network with other local voluntary groups, the local authority, health authority and other local agencies. green environment, a low rate of • Working with local authorities to crime, a good range of educational help meet government set targets DERWENTSIDE INDUSTRIAL opportunities, an excellent for main services; DEVELOPMENT AGENCY telecommunications infrastructure The Derwentside Industrial • Developing and delivering Development Agency (DIDA) is and a growing strong community strategies to secure a better spirit. However, there are still key located in Consett and provides a future through employment business support service for new issues to address especially in some opportunities, better education, of the worse-off communities. and established businesses. It works reduction of crime, improvement with other stakeholders and partners Derwentside needs to keep up with of health, better housing and a developments in the rest of the for the economic development of sustainable environment country and the world, be it new Derwentsideand is also partner in technology, new skills or new For more information on what the the Business Support Network for cultures and attitudes. This is the Derwentside LSP is doing in the County Durham, providing a only way to ensure the area remains area visit the website on brokerage service for local competitive on all fronts and www.derwentsidelsp.co.uk or businesses. safeguard the long-term survival of call 01207-218271 The range of business support future generations and communities. In November 2001 the Derwentside Derwentside District Council has been Partnership, a body made up of the most senior representatives from involved with various organisations and the public, private, voluntary and community sectors across Derwentside, was established. By taken several significant actions to building on work to involve the community in a constructive support new businesses in the district. dialogue over the last few years, the Derwentside Partnership can now produce a Community Strategy for Derwentside. It has been DERWENTSIDE CVS services is varied and core services produced collectively and outlines Derwentside Council for Voluntary include business awareness training, future key priorities and actions to Services (CVS) is a district-wide strategic business planning and guide all key organisations when voluntary organisation set up and access to finance (grant aid, loan they develop their strategies and ran by local groups to support, finance and equity) for start ups and workplans, to deliver a better future promote, and develop local existing businesses. for our District. voluntary action. They also offer management The Derwentside Partnership has a They aim to bring together local development programmes for senior number of functions, here are just a voluntary and community groups managers and key staff of existing few: to promote and develop the businesses, undergraduate business • Preparation and implementation effectiveness of voluntary action. placement scheme (STEP) and of a community strategy, based on They also develop provision of high quality office space the views of the community, to partnerships which can involve local for technology related start ups and improve the economic, social and organisations such as the district and early stage growth companies in our environmental well-being of county councils, health authorities, Innovation Centre, which is set to Derwentside; the training and enterprise councils and open in November 2005. • Bringing together other local plans, local businesses. “DIDA have provided a start up partnerships and initiatives to Operating in the heart of Derwentside, service for seven new business ensure co-ordination, effectiveness the Centre’s four main functions are since April 2005, 14+ employees and efficiency; providing services and support for with a ombined turnover of £485,000.

16 2006 Derwentside Business Directory 2006 Derwentside Business Directory 17 “In 2004-2005, they helped start over 25 businesses with DERWENTSIDE ENGINEERING FORUM sales and marketing costs and 68 employees, and combined turnover of nearly £4m,” Derwentside Engineering Forum, registered as a include an Exhibition Support Grant said Edward Smith, Enterprise Projects Manager, Business non-profit making company and limited by guarantee, and an Exhibition Investigation Link County Durham DIDA has been operating since 1982 was established in 1999 by a group of private sector Grant. and has an acknowledged reputation for its companies to develop the engineering and manufacturing The Business Development Grant professionalism in helping businesses to start up capacity of the Derwentside area. The main objective of is designed to encourage the or expand. the Forum is to act as a marketing body, building new establishment and development of relationships and increasing awareness of the SME’s engaged in the manufacturing DERWENTSIDE TRAINING FOR INDUSTRY UNIT engineering capabilities available in Derwentside. or regional service sectors. The value of a Business Development The Derwentside Training for Industry Unit (DTIU) is an It was initially established to address problems Grant offer is up to a maximum of independent business support unit working across North experienced by local employers in recruiting suitably £10,000 (up to 30% of eligible costs) skilled engineering personnel. The Forum works with Durham to help with training for local companies. and is dependent upon the The unit has been running for five years and its primary local training providers to develop recruitment and occupation of premises and creation objective is to satisfy the training needs of the business training plans for the engineering industry, ensuring the of jobs as part of the supported community of Derwentside & County Durham. quality and availability of training skills match the needs project. of a growing engineering sector. This is achieved through a process of training needs, For further information on all the The Forum’s aims and objectives are: available grants or to contact an analysis and working with local training providers to • To identify and address barriers to growth, skill appropriate member of staff visit: ensure that they develop programmes that meet the development and job/wealth creation within www.durham4business.com/ needs of business. engineering companies. business_assist/financial_ The unit offers a range of support services to companies • To promote Derwentside as a favourable location for incentives.htm including carrying out the process of training needs engineering investment and supply sourcing. analysis and skills audits to enable businesses to • To develop recruitment and training plans for member Government incentives identify areas requiring further skills development. companies in conjunction with local training and Central Government through the education providers. Department of Trade and Industry It also offers support with the development of training also offers financial and other plans, as well as making local businesses aware of • To act as a facilitator in order to develop a wider assistance to companies locating or Competitive Smart Awards contribute £25 per week for six sources of funding which are available to address Derwentside stakeholder network, and thus raise the expanding in certain parts of the UK. These are competitive grants for months. Businesses are limited to workforce development needs. profile of engineering within the community. County Durham is one of the areas SME’s and go towards innovative a maximum of 4 subsidised jobs • To enable Forum members to identify collaborative in which incentives are offered and Users are also given acess to the comprehensive the main forms include. feasibility and development projects in any one year. Training Provision database covering County Durham as working and exploit synergistic opportunities in areas involving significant technological Regional Selective Assistance such as group purchasing, marketing etc. advance. well being allowed to enroll onto Learndirect courses RSA grants are discretionary and NE COMMERCE - For more information contact Mr. Robert Leech, Business and flexible online training provision. based on the fixed capital costs of • For a feasibility study - 75% of www.n-e-commmerce.com Development Manager on Email: [email protected] or a project (at least £500,000) and the eligible project costs up to a Telephone 01207 693990 NE Commerce has been set up to number of jobs expected to be maximum of £45,000. provide a ‘one-stop gateway to created. The level of grant will be • For a development project - 30% e-commerce and e-business support PARTNERSHIP-THE KEY TO SUCCESS negotiated as the minimum of eligible project costs up to a to businesses in the North East of Excellent partnerships have been instrumental in helping necessary to enable the project to maximum grant of £200,000 England.’ Derwentside to overcome the deep socio-economic proceed. Most manufacturing and NE Commerce aims to provide problems of the early 1980’s. The range of partners service sector firms are eligible. Durham Enterprise loan fund a range of e-commerce and is very wide and these have grown stronger over the Business Enterprise Grants This scheme has been negotiated e-business support and services years through learning from experience and These grants are aimed at SME’s with the Newcastle Building Society through its website including news, development. (i.e. companies with less than 250 to provide preferential mortgage discussion groups, frequently asked employees) and with a project of County Durham Development Company finance for County Durham questions page, case studies, best less than £500,000 capital The County Durham Development Company (CDDC) businesses. The applicant business practice examples and diagnostic manages Durham County Council’s ‘Financial Incentives expenditure. The maximum grant toolkits. is £75,000, the criteria for this grant must have been trading for at least for Business’ Scheme. two years and must be engaged in Firstly they provide e-commerce is again about helping the region’s support and information to small and Assistance is available to manufacturing businesses and economy and creating jobs. manufacturing or providing a those providing a service on at least a regional scale. service on at least a regional scale. medium enterprises (SME’s) across the North East, while members Public sector organisations, retailers and local services The mortgage is available for the receive a more focused service. are excluded, as are all primary industries, agriculture development, extension, purchase and horticulture. A range of incentives are available to or refurbishment of industrial units They aim to motivate and encourage meet differing circumstances. All grants, other than the to be occupied by the borrower. the region’s small and medium Trade Support Grants, relate to the occupation of The loan can be up to 75% of the enterprises, as well as developing premises/ floorspace and the creation of employment, valuation of the building, repayable and organising a range of practical and only one grant is available per project. over 20 years, on preferential terms. measures to support and help with Youth Employment Premium the removal of potential barriers to Different grants available: The Youth Employment premium e-business. A Strategic Investment Grant is available, the value of operates as a subsidy supporting Their approach within the region, which is up to a maximum of £50,000 (up to 30% of the permanent employment of is to firstly raise awareness of the eligible costs). This offer is targeted towards businesses unemployed young people. The benefits of e-commerce, to enable involved in scientific and technological research and scheme is available to any private and help to assess their e-business development as their primary activity and who satisfy the sector employer who is creating readiness (including self diagnosis, requirement of occupying premises and creating jobs as additional new jobs and offering action planning, etc.), and then to part of the supported project. permanent employment to young provide practical support, guidance, Trade Support Grants are aimed at helping County people aged between 17-24, who training courses, seminars, etc. to Durham businesses find opportunities in new markets; have been unemployed for six enable them to realise the benefits two forms of financial contribution are available to assist months or more. The grant will of e-commerce.

18 2006 Derwentside Business Directory 2006 Derwentside Business Directory 19 The website also provides relevant Unsecured lending is available up to information relevant to starting a information, including links to either £35,000 or £50,000 depending business. related sites, return on investment on the historic profitability of the One NorthEast supports the region in guidelines, Best Practice Guides, case business and mixed loan and equity everything from business support to studies and information about packages to £400,000 are available regeneration. relevant workshops and seminars. for companies needing a higher level Tourism of support. One NorthEast is now responsible NORTH EAST In order to assist initiatives that are for both the strategic direction and CHAMBER OF COMMERCE likely to benefit steel areas but which delivery of tourism across the region. The North East Chamber of do not lend themselves to formal The Tourism team offers a range of Commerce (NECC) is owned by the investment, UK steel has developed a support for regional tourism region’s members and aims to serve programme of community support. businesses as well as helping to their interests locally and This sometimes means the provision capitalise on the contribution of throughout the region. of financial assistance to a particular tourism to the regional economy The NECC, which has over 200 staff, project whilst at other times it may through enhanced investment and is one of the largest Chambers of mean supporting a project with help smarter delivery. Commerce in the UK and represents and advice in matters where our Culture the independent voice of North East experience is appropriate. Supporting and nurturing the spirit of business. They provide a creativity in North East England is comprehensive range of business ONE NORTHEAST services, products and expert now at the heart of the Agency’s One NorthEast is the Regional Regional Economic Strategy. The training to help businesses realise Development Agency covering the their potential. Agency realises the true potential of North East region of England, culture to contribute to the economic comprising Northumberland, Tyne regeneration of the region. UK STEEL ENTERPRISE & Wear, County Durham and Tees UK Steel Enterprise is the Valley. Regional Image Strategy regeneration arm of Corus, (formerly One NorthEast is committed to In consultation with partners and British Steel) that provides loan and providing a quality support stakeholders, One NorthEast has equity funding to businesses within infrastructure for businesses in the prepared a Regional Image Strategy the Derwentside area. The business- region. It encourages entrepreneurs, for North East England, which es must be located within the district innovation and business growth by acknowledges that, if we are going council boundaries and be engaged providing relevant support to to achieve a step-change in the in either manufacturing or a related companies including access to economic performance of the region, service industry. finance, advice, support and we must improve its image.

inspiring derwentside

2006 Derwentside Business Directory 21 Help provided: They currently work with secondary schools across Derwentside, offering a range of programmes for years 7 to 11, from enterprising activity taster days to a more in-depth and focused programme. This is a key example of how the Council is tackling the lack of aspiration and entrepreneurialism in the prevailing culture and creating derwentside greater linkages between education and enterprise. In the short-term it is flagship projects hoped that this will encourage a SUNDERLAND BUSINESS more flexible, adaptable workforce and in the longer term they hope to create a ‘can-do’ culture of success. Our part-time programmes in Busi- Businesses helped: Help young people SCHOOL Rising Stars: THE EMERGE PROJECT product design and logistics. The in schools to become aspirational and ness are a GREAT investment in your Start of scheme: 2003, by aims are achieved by looking at the enthusiastic about setting up Derwentside Disrict Council existing ways the business works, businesses. FUTURE and exploring ways to save business Main purpose of the Scheme: The costs, improve existing layout and Support organisations: Derwentside main aim of this project is to provide practices to rejuvenate the existing District Council support to budding entrepreneurs in business. Contact info: Martin Bell at the Derwentside area. It aims to give [email protected] people who want to set up a business Help provided: There are many serv- ices that Agility offers including the or telephone 01207 690100 the skills and information necessary 5S, a detailed approach to improving to be successful and prosper. Flexibility around your working life the conditions of a working area, its A Guiding Light: BEACON SCHEME Help provided: The Emerge project organisation and appearance. This Start of scheme: In March 2005, helps entrepreneurs in many different will help improve presentation of the Derwentside District Council was ways; through practical business business and working environment, awarded Beacon status. advice and training solutions, also improve organisational discipline and All of our courses are related to Main purpose of the Scheme: The cash incentives and a complete reduce any Health and Safety issues. support package to members of the The Agility Group run 3 half day scheme was originally set up to local community who wish to start a seminars which introduce businesses publicise best practice in service actual work situations new business. Emerge aims to to techniques which enable them to delivery across local Government. remove the hassle from starting a recognise and improve the use of all Each year the Government selects business by assisting with financial the businesses resources, which in the themes for the Beacon Scheme; and start up support. It also provides turn can only enhance the business. themes are chosen because of their support for assessing the potential Other services include information importance in the day-to-day lives of We aim to develop managers business start up ideas. Emerge has and advice on office layout, design, the public and are key to improving already helped many new businesses unlocking business potential, time the quality of life in all communities. by providing training and equipment management and various other who can perform better within Help provided: Beacon Status is advice, as well as arming them with aspects that affect the day-to-day granted to those authorities who can the appropriate skills and knowledge. running of business, which can be Businesses helped: Up to 40 clients utilised into making the business demonstrate a clear vision, excellent their organisations, are advised every year, and the more competitive. services and a willingness to innovate success of the scheme is highlighted Businesses helped: Agility provides within a specific theme. Only three by the fact that 42 businesses and 82 this training for both emplMoyers other councils in the country were at whatever level jobs have been created in just two and employees by holding awarded Beacon Status for years. workshops or project manage the Supporting New Businesses. The Support organisations: Derwentside implementation of 5S into the Council’s Business Development Industrial Development Agency business. Team works hard to help and support (DIDA), Business Link, the Economic Support organisations: Derwentside business start ups, relocation Development Unit at Derwentside District Council schemes, and encourage existing Council and Chamber of Commerce. Contact info: Giles Johnston on businesses in the region. The Team Contact info: Sue Surtees on 0191 334 4741 or Visit: has initiated a number of projects 01207 693 919 OR www.dur.ac.uk/agility which all work towards making and Email: [email protected] promoting the region as an even bet- Room For Development: ter place to live and work by providing Whether you re aspiring to be a manager or The Competitive Edge: AGILITY ENTERPRISE PLACE businesses with advice and discussion Start of scheme: 2000, by University looking to further YOUR skills at a senior level Start of scheme: 2005 forums, funding, grants and a wealth of Durham, Engineering department Main purpose of the Scheme: To of information and advice. then The Business School has a course for Main purpose of the Scheme: Agility challenge and change the cultural and aims to identify and engage behavioural mindset of the people of Businesses helped: The Council’s YOU! businesses that wish to improve their Derwentside, thereby encouraging a Beacon Award, shows a further 42 competitiveness through enhanced spirit of entrepreneurialism and a new businesses have been created in manufacturing performance. It is culture of enterprise. A key goal is to the last two years with a lot of those aimed at small and medium offer students opportunities to be being created by female entrepreneurs FoFor f ur tth ere infinfor m a tti ionoon ccoon t a ctcct: : DaD l e J a rvvis is enterprises covering areas such as challenged and to develop the key which is unique throughout the TelephTeelep hoonn e:e 001910191 5155515 23319 manufacturing processes, business transferable skills utilised in the world country. - m a i : b usiness@@su nder a ndd.a c.uk strategy, operations, target market, of work. Support organisations: N/A E- m a ill: bbu ssiness@suun deerla n dd.a cc.u k www.sunderland.ac.uw www.ssu ndeerla ndd.a cc.uk 22 2006 Derwentside Business Directory

Limited company and training. Even if you don’t have to register, it may To form a limited company, you can buy an ‘off-the-shelf’ benefit your business to register voluntarily. company or create your own new company. You can buy Will you be liable for any other forms of tax? an off-the-shelf company through a company registration As well as income tax there are other forms of tax which agent. If you create a new company, you must agree and are only relevant to certain kinds of business. Some register its name and address with the Registrar of imported goods are also liable to duties. If you want to Companies at Companies House. A limited company know more about how these taxes might affect your must display its full corporate name outside all places business, contact the C&E National Advice Service on of business. Registration details must be shown on Tel: 0845 010 9000. business letters and order forms. Directors must Records remember to file statutory documents, such as accounts Helping you to help yourself and annual returns. Keeping records makes sound business sense. It may Have you got a business plan? seem like a challenge, particularly when you’re starting Having a well-thought-out business plan will make life out, but keeping good records will bring real advantages much easier in the long run. Careful planning means to your business. Get a proper system in place from the you’re less likely to forget things, gives you targets to outset, and update the information regularly. By law you aim for and helps you measure your success. And if you must keep records of all your business income and decide you need to borrow some money, a good expenditure. You need to keep these records for at least business plan will be vital. five years after the latest date for sending back your tax Should you register for VAT? return. Keep any information and documents that you You will probably have to register for and charge VAT if: may need to help you fill in your tax return or to make a • Your taxable turnover reaches, or is likely to reach, claim. a set limit There are three steps to remember: • You have taken over a business as a going concern, or Set up a system • You acquire goods from other European Union It doesn’t matter whether you use a special account book countries. or a software package as long as you set up some kind If you are VAT-registered, you will charge 17.5% VAT on of system to keep the information together. Make sure starting your many goods and services you supply to customers in the the system you choose is geared to your business, and UK. VAT is the government tax charged on many goods simple to use. and services imported or supplied from places outside Keep records throughout the year own business the European Union, and on many goods and services Keeping only some of your records is almost as bad as supplied within the EU. VAT does not apply to certain keeping none at all. Update your records regularly, rather services because the law says these are ‘exempt’ from than letting the paperwork pile up. VAT. These include loans of money, some property Keep your records for as long as required transactions, insurance and certain types of education hether you’re thinking be liable for a penalty of £100. Partnership You must keep all records for at least five years from the seriously about starting Have you thought about income If your business is a partnership Wyour own business, or tax and National Insurance between two or more people, you you’re already up and running, it’s contributions? should consider a formal deed of worth taking a bit of time to make When you are self-employed, you’re partnership, although this is not a influential sure you’ve done everything you responsible for paying your own legal requirement. If you do choose need to do. This brief summary is tax and National Insurance to have a formal deed of partnership designed to help you start out on contributions. Keeping full and you will need to consult a solicitor. If the right track so you can avoid accurate records from the start will the partnership is trading under a some of the common pitfalls and make it easier to work these out. name other than that of the concentrate on building a thriving Broadly speaking, after your first owner(s), you must display the business. This will cover all the main year in business, the tax you have to name and address of the owner(s), areas you’ll need to know about, pay will be based on your profits for and an address for each at which and tells you where to go for further the previous tax year. A tax year documents can be served. information. runs from 6 April to 5 April. But you Limited Liability Partnerships (LLP’s) Are you employed or must start paying Class 2 National LLP’s provide organisational self-employed? Insurance contributions as soon as flexibility and the benefits of Your employment status depends you become self-employed. These limited liability, they offer a modern upon a number of things, including are payable in addition to any Class alternative business structure. They your terms and conditions and the 4 National Insurance contributions are likely to be particularly attractive way you organise your work. If which may be charged on your to professional partnerships, but you’re working for yourself, you’re profits. they are available to all. LLP’s will in probably self-employed. If you do What happens if I don’t register as general be treated for tax purposes more than one job, it’s worth self-employed? as a business carried on by partners remembering that you can be To avoid the £100 penalty imposed, employed in one job and you must register as self-employed in partnership, rather than as a self-employed in another. within three months of starting a company. This means that those If you’re self-employed, have you new business. By law you must pay partners who are individuals will be registered with the Inland Revenue? your contributions and the debt liable to pay the flat rate Class 2 If you have not registered within could be enforced through the National Insurance contributions three months, starting from the last courts if you fail to pay what’s due. (NIC’s) as self-employed people and day of the month in which you Have you thought about the income tax and Class 4 NIC’s on derwentside ownbeganself-employment, you could business structure of your business? their share of the partnership profits.

26 2006 Derwentside Business Directory 2006 Derwentside Business Directory 27 latest date for sending back your tax return. You may need to look back at them Helping you to see things more clearly! yourself, and the tax office may need to see them if there is any question over your tax. Your business and the Law It makes sense to do it properly and make it as easy for yourself as possible. If you have one, you might want to get advice from your accountant. Depending on what sort of business you’re starting you may be affected by law on: • Health and safety • Fire precautions • The environment • Employee rights • Buildings • Providing services to disabled people • Intellectual property (for example business names, inventions and copyrights) advice for business and industries. malpractice and publishing appro- Visit: www.environment- priate guidance. The OFT also issues • Fair trading agency.gov.uk/epns/ or call consumer credit licences. To check • storing personal details 0845 9333 111 (in Northern whether your business is affected, • Licences Ireland call 028 90 540 540). see the OFT’s website at: www.oft.gov.uk or call • Insurance Buildings 08457 224499. For information You must take action if: about consumer credit licences, Health and safety call 020 7211 8608. You are responsible for the effect • a new building or change of use is informnorth magazine is also online informnorth.com your business may have on the involved Keeping information about people health and safety of your employees • plant or machinery is installed If your business involves keeping and members of the public. You may within an industrial site, but outside Informnorth is just like you - it’s totally unique and it’s We’re the undisputed market leader and like no other information about people, you will need to register with the Health & a building have to be careful about the sort of very exceptional. organisation you’ve ever seen before. We aim to work Safety Executive (HSE) or with your • existing premises require structural information you keep and how it is in partnership with many of the best sources of help and Local Authority. For further We believe that everybody in the North East should be alterations. used in relation to the Data support in the North East to match peoples ambitions information, visit the Health & given the very best support and information to turn their Protection Act. You may have to with great success stories and real-life case studies and Safety Executive website at: Contact your Local Authority for fur- dreams and aspirations into reality. register if you keep such information we highlight where you should turn for ideas and help www.hse.gov.uk or ther information. on computer or have a CCTV That’s because we think that if you have the motivation no matter what your circumstances. phone 08701 545500. to succeed in life, there’s never been a better time to Intellectual property system. For further information visit: In short, if you have the ambition to succeed then we’ll www.dataprotection.gov.uk or make the most of the expertise and the opportunities that Fire precautions ‘Intellectual property’ describes show you how to take it much further. things such as business names, call the Data Protection Office on are ahead of you. You may need a fire certificate, 01625 545745. Informnorth offers you information and inspiration and particularly if you’re running a guest patents and inventions. You should Perhaps you didn’t do so well as school or left without protect your own company name is FREELY available from a unique and wide range of house, hotel or residential nursing formal qualifications and now want to make up for lost and logo, along with any inventions, Licences distribution outlets and partner organisations throughout home. For general advice on fire time? Maybe you just want to get off benefits and have product designs or copyrights. A licence is required for many the North East, many of which are published within the precautions, talk to your local fire a regular income or take that long waited leap into self You should also respect other businesses, not just the obvious community and business contact listings in every issue. service. employment, fulfilling any ambitions you may have for people’s intellectual property rights. ones like casinos or public houses. working for yourself? Make sure you ask for a copy wherever you’re seeking For example, you can’t use the same For example, you need a licence to The environment run a hotel, a guesthouse, a mobile help or to find out more visit informnorth.com today. name for your business as someone Even if you’re just bored with your job or present career There are environmental regulations shop or to be a hairdresser. You that may apply if your business: else doing similar work in your path and just need a little bit of help looking for another, For inspiration, impartial advice and quality town. The Patent Office can provide should always check with your Local informnorth fills the gap and provides support to you in signposting for YOUR ambitions there’s only • uses refrigeration or air- lots of useful information and Authority whether your business finding the path for you and the right way forward. one place you need turn... conditioning equipment, fire advice. Visit their websites at: requires a licence to trade. equipment or solvents for cleaning www.patent.gov.uk and Insurance • produces, imports, exports, stores, www.intellectual- It’s good practice to have insurance transports, treats, disposes of or property.gov.uk or telephone to cover the loss or theft of your recovers waste 08459 500 505. business property, as well as other • produces, imports or exports Fair trading types of possible losses. If you packaging The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) is employ anyone it is also compulsory to have employee liability insurance. The magazine for change • produces packaging waste. responsible for protecting consumers by promoting effective Launching your business Telephone: 0191 5866 010 or 5866 040 or visit www.informnorth.co.uk The Environment Agency provides competition, removing trading There’s no point starting up a

2006 Derwentside Business Directory 29 the minimum requirement for most If you have five or more employees You do not have to provide details of types of business will be: you must give access to a stakeholder your personal expenditure. • A cash book (a summary and pension scheme unless they are YOU SHOULD PROTECT exempt. You must make payroll You should set up a system as soon analysis of all bank account entries, as you start in business. It’s also a cash receipts, payments and deductions of an employee’s good idea to keep all the relevant YOUR OWN COMPANY drawings) contribution into his or her stakeholder pension if they ask you to. papers in a separate ‘tax’ file. • A petty cash book (or some other Self Assessment NAME AND LOGO, ALONG simple record of your petty cash Where to get more help If you are self-employed, it is up to transactions). you to provide accurate information Inland Revenue WITH ANY INVENTIONS If you run a large business, you may on your business income and Tel helpline: 0845 915 4515 need other account books. You can expenditure each year. To do this, Website: get further advice from your local you need to send complete a Self www.inlandrevenue.gov.uk Tax Office or from your accountant, Assessment tax return. if you have one. How does it work? Business Support Team Computer records Each year, the tax office will send Tel helpline: 08459 15 45 15 If you keep your records on you a tax return that is tailored to Website: computer, you’ll still need to keep your circumstances. You should get www.inlandrevenue.gov.uk/bst the original paper invoices or other this in April. You need to fill in your records of sales, purchases and tax return with details of all sources Newly Self-Employed similar transactions, unless you use of taxable income, gains, reliefs and Tel helpline: 08459 15 45 15 an optical imaging system or allowances. If you want the Inland microfilm all your originals Revenue to work out how much tax General business advice Employing people you need to pay, you must return it Business Link on 0845 600 9006 or If you’re thinking of taking on by September 30. Otherwise, you will visit someone to help with your need to work out the tax yourself and www.businesslink.gov.uk st business, there are some things you return it by the 31 of January to Business regulation advice: must do. Sorting these out properly avoid paying a penalty. business if no’one knows you’re keeping a grip on money matters. www.dag-business.gov.uk from the start will save you a lot of How do I get the information I need? there. So it only seems sensible to It’s much easier to keep good time and trouble later on. There is a By keeping good, clear records. National Insurance Contributions make a bit of a noise when you records than it is to sort out special Helpline and a nationwide That’s why you need to keep full begin. problems in a rush at the end of Tel Helpline on: 0845 915 4811 network of Business Support Teams records of all your takings, the financial year. When it comes to Setting a launch date to help you with your payroll expenditure and other income such New Employer’s Helpline preparing your annual accounts, Setting a launch date will help you responsibilities. as bank interest. Tel: 0845 60 70 143 you’ll be glad you put a little time concentrate your mind on getting What do I need to do? ready for business. It’s easier to get and effort into managing your finances properly. As an employer, you will have to things organised and in place when work out, and pay, your employees’ Personal finance you know there’s a deadline to meet. tax and National Insurance It’s important to separate your And, when you come to send back contributions. This comes out of the business dealings from the money your first tax return, you’ll need to wages or salary you pay them. It is you use for your own or your tell the Inland Revenue the date your also up to you to pay the employer’s family’s personal use. Your records business started. National Insurance contributions on should show that your personal Making a splash the earnings of your employees, and money is separate from Depending on your business, a to sort out any tax credits due to launch event can be a great way of • Business cash your employees. letting the world know who you are, • Your business bank account. What if I have any problems? what you’re doing and where to find If you don’t have a separate The New Employer’s Helpline can you. It’s an opportunity for the business account, you must keep give you help and advice. And they people who could really make a clear records of what is personal or can arrange for you to see one of difference to your business to meet to do with your business. You’ll also the Business Support Team advisers you face to face. If you do decide to need to keep a record of any private who’ll be happy to advise you on organise a launch event, try to hold money you bring into the business, setting up your payroll it as close as possible to the date and where it came from (e.g. a arrangements. The Helpline can also you actually start your business. legacy, a loan, Before the event itself, you’ll need to fix you up with a place on one of the or the proceeds of a life assurance think about: local payroll workshops. All these policy). You should also keep all services are free of charge. • Your business name and image. bank and building society Employees and the law You need to decide on this before statements and passbooks for any If you take on any employees, you’ll you face the world for the first time. accounts which you use for need to know about the law on your business. • Launch publicity. Think about things like employee rights, working placing advertisements where your hours, minimum wages and equal customers will see them, and Paying employees opportunities. You can find out more sending news releases to appropriate If you’re employing other people, about the law on working hours in media - newspapers, magazines and you’ll also need to keep a record of the DTI booklet Your Guide to the local radio and TV stations. everything you’ve paid them, includ- Working Time Regulations, which Keeping control of your finances ing wages, payments and benefits. you can get from your local library By now you should be keeping a Record books or read on: record of everything you do. In this The sort of records you keep will www.dti.gov.uk/er/work_time section, we take a closer look at depend on your business. However, _regs

30 2006 Derwentside Business Directory 2006 Derwentside Business Directory 31 by supportive and effective managers build upon its current strengths in Derwentside district. Durham is the - under the overall direction of an this vocational area to provide closest and is one of the top authoritative and professional training, skills development and establishments in the country, Executive supported by experienced qualifications that will meet the needs Sunderland, Newcastle, Northumbria and reputable Governors. of employers in the travel and Teeside also have very good Within Derwentside, the College and tourism industries. universities. provides support for community The status in Multi Skilled Systems LEARNING SKILLS COUNCIL education, demonstrating its Maintenance Engineering is in DURHAM have a single goal - to commitment to the widening of partnership with the Automotive improve the skills of England’s young lifelong learning participation in learning from Sector Strategic Alliance (ASSA) and people and adults to make sure we communities that traditionally have Nissan Motor Manufacturing (UK) have a workforce that is of been deprived of the` necessary Ltd. The partnership CoVE has been world-class standards. and education resources and opportunities. selected as part of a nation wide Nationally, the Learning Skills Council In partnership with Derwentside’s initiative to improve and develop (LSC) is responsible for secondary schools, the college is vocational skills in engineering. planning and funding high-quality leading the development and Whatever you want to do Durham vocational education and training for delivery of an integrated 14-19 College can set you on the right path. everyone, and their vision is that by curriculum. In County Durham as a BISHOP AUCKLAND COLLEGE 2010, young people and adults in whole, it remains a leading provider has been providing courses and England have the knowledge and of work-based learning for young training opportunities to individuals skills matching the best in the world “ hrough partnership we will New College Durham establishments, which provide people. and employers for over 40 years and and are part of a truly competitive have created a culture in lifelong learning and education to From all of its locations, in all of its have over 50 full-time and more than workforce. which people will want to T is another leading the region. operations, and across all of its 450 part-time courses to choose from. LSC Council County Durham works learn, will have the opportunity to DERWENTSIDE COLLEGE is the provision, there is strong evidence with a broad range of partner learn, and enjoy learning” Education The college is considered one of the education provider in major provider of post 16 education that Derwentside College makes a organisations to support its overall and training are at the heart of fastest growing colleges in the UK. and training in Derwentside, in North positive contribution to the lives of mission of increasing participation community development. High It offers a wide range of full and part the North East Region. West County Durham, first the people and the communities it and attainment through high quality quality education and training are time courses, as well as an IT centre, established in 1986 to combine the serves. free bus service, reliable child care education and training. These include essential to a vibrant economy and Their further education activities of Consett Technical Business Link County Durham, an outward looking, well-informed NEW COLLEGE DURHAM is services, a learning resource library College and the sixth forms of another one of the leading education as well as confidential help and Durham County Council, local society. The link between economy and higher education the five local schools. colleges, universities, local councils and education and training is providers in County Durham and the support on a number of areas from The college’s main campus in North East Region. Their further course guidance to job search and CV and schools as well as One two-way. Just as economic health courses cover a wide NorthEast. and growth depend on a well- Consett opened their new buildings education and higher education preparation. educated workforce, so educational range of academic and in 2002, with further sites in Stanley courses cover a wide range of Courses are available in subjects from They offer advice and support on aspirations are depressed by a and a sixth form centre in academic and vocational disciplines art to engineering and at levels from a number of issues from financial declining economy. The vocational disciplines Lanchester. The college is organised and are open to full and part-time access to HND. As well as the central support for students to disappearance of the mining and into four curriculum areas and offers students of all ages, aspirations and site on Woodhouse Lane in Bishop apprenticeships and training advice steel industries have served to lower and are open to full and courses in all areas of learning with abilities. Auckland there are centres across the for employers to qualifications for expectations of what people could the exception of land-based and Working closely with employers the district delivering courses and train- learners. achieve and for a time, threatened part-time students of construction. college provides pathways for learn- ing in the community. or their very first time LSC County to establish a cycle of The college aims to deliver excellent ers to achieve degrees and profes- Durham was recognised this year as under-expectation and associated all ages, aspirations education to students from sional qualifications. It plays an active UNIVERSITIES an Investor in People after a national low levels of attainment. Derwentside and beyond. With a role in the community and through Higher education is well catered assessor felt there was a strong It’s about more than just jobs and and abilities. comprehensive range of courses, partnerships promotes the ethos for in the region, you have five feeling of commitment from the staff the wider community should help their centres provide an ideal of Lifelong Learning through the universities in the North East all and management team, while the more people make sense of, and environment for study and success. creation of new and diverse learning within traveling distance of the new offices in Belmont were filled contribute to, the rapidly-changing The Derwentside LSP has set out a It also offers a wide range of opportunities for local people. world in which they live. Therefore number of key issues which they aim imaginative, innovative, and New College Durham has been education changes, adapts and to address in order to improve client-centered responses to the undergoing an ambitious project to evolves, and this process must take education, training, and other totally rebuild and develop its cam- place through a carefully planned education in the area and these employment-related needs of the pus at Framwellgate Moor. strategic framework to ensure that include: communities and individuals it The project, which was completed in everyone benefits. In the district • The need to foster a district-wide serves. 2005, consists of purpose designed there is an Education and Training approach to education and training Forum overseeing this process and The performance achievements of facilities for all college courses and • Aim to develop Derwentside as a the college’s learners and jobseeker activities, including a dedicated representing the full range of ‘Learning District’ partners. The Forum co-ordinates clients put it in the top ten percent of technology building, aimed at the and plans developments in • To help develop a 14-19 curriculum providers in England and Wales - needs of local employers, new education and training to provide for the 21st century which is able testimony to the college’s success in buildings for sports, music and an integratedapproach, whilst to respond to changing learner meeting these needs and in helping recreational activities, modern teach- recognising the legitimate needs. people to achieve both their learning ing blocks for academic and vocation- self-interest of individual providers. • Provide integrated multi-service aims and their employment al courses and an extensive library, Recently the forum commissioned provision convenient to all aspirations. learning resources and information research into the educational “state communities within Derwentside. With its state-of-the-art technology facilities. of play” in Derwentside and the • Include as many pupils as possible accommodation and facilities (and New College Durham has also subsequent priorities for future in their local mainstream school operating on an annual income of excelled in two subject areas and action specific to the district. and development of alternative over £13 million), Derwentside has received Centre of Vocational These priorities are the key issues approaches to the inclusion of College offers a clean, safe and Excellence status in Travel and which inform this plan, and which pupils with special needs attractive learning environment. Tourism Services and Multi Skilled we believe will support us in • Develop a multi-agency approach Its education, training and Systems Maintenance Engineering. ensuring that the educational to inclusive assessment and opportunities and outcomes in employment-related programmes The college is only one of seven provision for pupils with special are organised and delivered by well colleges nationally to have received Derwentside, support the growth educational needs (SEN). and regeneration of the community, qualified, successful and committed this status from the Learning and learningand are as good as across the rest of Derwentside and its immediate area teams ofand staff enjoying excellent educSkills Council, in Travel and Tourism the country. has a number of top quality learning conditions of employment and led Services. It means the college can

32 2006 Derwentside Business Directory 2006 Derwentside Business Directory 33 holds a Quality ‘Q’ awarded by the They are also responsible for Basic Skills Agency. commissioning services from acute, “In addition, because we are involved community and voluntary sectors and in training and education, the Adult working in partnership with all Learning Inspectorate inspects us on relevant agencies and communities. a four-year cycle, and in September The PCT’s paramount concern is to 2002, we successfully passed the promote the health and well being inspection with particular reference to of its population and it will the ‘very good demonstrate this by adopting the foundations for Work Programmes’, highest standards for its ethical, which include Life Skills training and Gateway to Work”, said Paul Kelly, clinical and managerial practice Training Services manager at and by progressively moving to an Derwentside training. agreed baseline of essential resources for each primary care practice. The Gateway to Work scheme aims to improve people’s chances of gaining This helps ensure equity of access to employment, improve their interview primary and secondary care for all its techniques, CV’s, letter writing and Healthy living population. The PCT is guided in its give advice on what employers are actions by a rigorous approach to looking for. Healthy life consultation with the public and It also allows people access to a full particularly users and carers, job search, team building activities voluntary sector, Health Trusts, with a positive working culture. Council and was first formed by the and additional qualifications in Health Social Services, District Councils LSC County Durham decided last year district council following the closure and safety, first Aid, Customer Care and other stakeholders. to use the Investor in People (IiP) of Consett British Steel Works in or Food Hygiene. 1981. There are over 30 doctors’ surgeries framework to support its Other schemes include the Short re-structuring and the key changes The intention of the unit was to aid within the district as well as Shotley Intensive Basic Skills programme healthy population is essential out a number of Issues which need Bridge Community Hospital for minor necessary to move the organisation regeneration of Derwentside by (SIBS), an eight-week programme for economic prosperity and addressing and the ways in which forward. Improvement areas such as providing opportunities for former injuries and University Hospital of for job seekers who lack current Athe growth of strong, safe, and they hope to achieve these aims. North Durham with an Accident and the evaluation of training and employees to up-skill and re-skill. qualifications in literacy and numera- healthy communities. In general, the development, the planning of learn- Currently the unit is delivering emergency department situated at cy the opportunity to achieve nation- better off people are, the better is • Improving Health and decreasing the University Hospital of North ing and development, management contracts funded by the County ally recognised qualification at level development and communication Durham Learning Skills Council, Job their health, whilst the poorer people mortality rates for the major Durham. one. are, the worse their health is. processes were looked at, and an Centre Plus and Neighbourhood diseases through the provision As well as these facilities, County innovative induction pack was Renewal Funds. They also offer educational support Therefore it stands to reason that of smoking cessation services. packages for parents who are on the ensuring a healthy population is not Durham also offers a health developed for staff. The training unit is an approved Sure Start register within Sure Start only about treating people when they • Promoting better mental health, promotion website for the provider with City & Guilds, OCR, and Stanley and Sure Start West are ill but also about preventing them and preventing chronic diseases surrounding districts and provides DERWENTSIDE TRAINING is the the Chartered Institute of Derwentside and the Gateway to and accidents. information on healthy living, training unit of Derwentside District Environmental Health, which also from becoming ill in the first place. Work scheme. Health and social care services con- • Provide improved access to including information about services tribute to improving quality of life and physical activities opportunities and partnership work that aims to prolonging survival for those with which promote a healthier lifestyle improve the health of the population. serious diseases. However, the major • Reducing health inequalities by The website highlights many impact on health is from the wider providing better foundations services that are offered at both determinants of health and our through a healthy pregnancy and County and District level, including lifestyles. early life chances. Working for Health, a local award scheme for County Durham and The World Health Organisation’s • Strengthen disadvantaged Darlington, which encourages definition of health is: ‘Health is a communities and address the employers to protect and promote state of complete physical, mental needs of vulnerable groups. and social well-being and not the health of their employees by merely the absence of disease • Improving Access to Health creating a healthier workplace and Services by making best use of the or infirmity.’ The wider determinants organisation. skills of the local workforce, new have a direct impact on health, as technologies and improvements to They also run a healthy school well as an indirect impact through premises programmes including healthy influencing our lifestyles e.g. in durham uni • To ensure that the population of eating programmes for primary and relation to smoking, whether or not Derwentside is able to access secondary schools, and advice and we eat a healthy diet, and the amount health services in line with national support for people needing help of physical activity we take. The waiting time targets. with personal health problems and Derwentside Partnership and its giving up smoking. Health Improvement Group aims to • To ensure that primary care and The PCT will work in partnership with work together with public sector community services are provided Derwentside Leisure, which will agencies, the business and in easily accessible, modern expand its sports and activities voluntary sector and communities. facilities that are fit for purpose. programme for young people. This Combined efforts are needed to • To work with partners across the tackle the wider determinants of county to develop a consistent will include providing activities in 25 health inequalities, such as poverty, approach to assessment (single schools and community centres, plus poor education outcomes, assessment process) and putting on free transport for outside unemployment, poor housing, implement the process in activities. homelessness and the problems Derwentside. Hospitals in the region: of disadvantaged neighbourhoods, Primary Care Trust (PCT) University Hospital of North Durham, as well as to promote and support County Durham Primary Care Trust North Road, Durham, healthy lifestyles. (PCT) is responsible for improving the Co Durham, tel: (0191) 333 2333 In conjunction with the Derwentside health of its local population and The people of Durham had been healthyPCT the Derwentside LSP have set developing Primary Care services. waiting decadeslife for a new hospital,

34 2006 Derwentside Business Directory 2006 Derwentside Business Directory 35 and finally it arrived in the shape of Shotley Bridge Community Hospital Squash at Belle Vue Leisure Centre is the new £96m University Hospital of will provide a full range of services popular, with a coloured court North Durham and the first patients for local people. Old and worn out and 3 traditional courts supporting entered the hospital on 3 April 2001. buildings have been demolished. Junior and Senior clubs alongside The Although all patient services in the New facilities have been developed in competitive leagues and regular indi- healthyhospital are provided on the NHS, by living and around the former maternity and vidual users. NHS staff, the new hospital was built outpatients block which is undergoing A four rink laser levelled indoor under the Private Finance Initiative, a major facelift. Bowling Green backs onto an open and the buildings are owned and Services include inpatient beds for maintained by the private sector. plan, fully licensed bar/lounge area rehabilitation and care of elderly complete with two full size snooker The new hospital’s state-of-the art people who do not need to be tables. From light snacks and bar Digital facilities include 21st century tal treated in an acute hospital, day meals, to fully catered wedding hospital wards and operating surgery, a full range of outpatients receptions and birthday parties, Belle theatres, digital x-ray, and new look clinics, x-ray and a minor injuries unit. Vue Leisure Centre provides delivery/recovery maternity suites. The hospital will also be the centre an ideal opportunity to relax with It provides acute hospital services for community services in friends or celebrate that special occa- for people in the north of County Derwentside. sion. Durham including accident and emergency and a full range of Derwentside has a number of General Louisa Centre Practices in the area, to Factory inpatient and outpatient services. The Louisa Centre, in the heart of F ory find your nearest doctors visit the The new hospital’s name - the Stanley provides the ideal sporting, University Hospital of North Durham - Derwentside PCT website at recreational and leisure venue. Within reflects its commitment to training www.derwentside-pct.nhs.uk The Louisa Centre, a large sports hall future doctors and its association with offers facilities for the Regional Medical School of the Leisure Centres badminton, five a side football, University of Newcastle upon Tyne. Belle Vue Leisure Centre tennis, cricket, basketball, volleyball and a number of other sports and Mr Mason added: “We have an Belle Vue Leisure Centre offers great activities, whilst a smaller sports excellent new hospital, built on leisure facilities. Facilities include a hall incorporating a specially schedule and on budget. large sports hall (32m by 36m) with designed climbing wall is suitable for “We have a lot of work still to do balcony viewing. The sports hall table tennis, trampolining, to make sure that patients get the boasts a superb semi sprung maple karate and exercise classes. floor, ideal for football, badminton, service they need without having A weight training room, with free volleyball, netball, tennis etc. to wait - whether for outpatient standing weights and an exercise appointments, tests, operations Basketball and cricket net facilities suite containing a superb range of or in Accident and Emergency. make this a diverse and high quality fitness training and cardio vascular “Now we have these excellent centre. equipment, are also available to those facilities, we will be working hard to Two fully equipped gymnasia (11.6m wishing to maintain or improve their make sure we have the services to by 14m and 11.8m by 12m) provide level of fitness. match.” excellent facilities for activities such The social facilities are also second to Shotley bridge hospital, Shotley as archery, martial arts and exercise none. A comfortable lounge and Bridge, Consett, Co Durham, classes. The fully air conditioned snooker area with a well stocked bar tel:(01207) 583583 Lifestyle Fitness Suite, with a state of overlooking the main hall. Here snacks are served, with facilities to £8 million has been invested to the art Cardio Theatre facility and an uropean funding is now available The course covers the following areas: assortment of resistance cater for birthday parties, wedding redevelop Shotley Bridge Hospital as to help develop 3D design skills a community hospital which will be machinery, offer users of all levels receptions and other special Part Modelling - Sketching, sketch occasions. within your organisation. With the the centre of health services for the of fitness the opportunity to exercise E based features, placed features, people of Derwentside. in a safe and pleasant atmosphere. Telephone: (01207) 218877 support of European Funding Bishop creating and using work features & Auckland College is able to offer 100 editing features. ISSUE County Durham based organisations half-price training in Computer Aided Assembly Modelling - Assembling parts, Design (CAD). editing “in place”, & assembly analysis. Greater involvement of patients Documenting Designs - Creating and the public in individual Funding is available to subsidise local treatment, planning services businesses by 50%. Our two day CAD drawing views, section and detail views and addressing local needs course usually costing £300 is offered annotating and dimensioning, exploded Aim: Expand patient and public on a first come first served basis at just views & presentations. involvement £150 per person. Objectives: To ensure that The course is ideal for organisations individual patients and their who wish to gain an introduction to carers are fully involved in their Computer Aided Design using care nd treatment. To book a place on a course industry standard software or those contact: GrahamWedderburn on To ensure that patient and public organisations wishing to upgrade from involvement is included at all 2D to 3D modelling. 01325 379600 levels of planning, delivery, Please note, organisations outside of monitoring and evaluation of If your organisation is looking to County Durham may be entitled to similar health services. develop skills in 3D design then why discounts, please ring to check eligibility. not take advantage of this Project.

2006 Derwentside Business Directory 36 An Environment for success - promotes investment whilst attracting association found that the standard of oe O’Brien is celebrating the start maintaining the quality, cost and Environment and Housing new businesses and new residents. A council dwellings in the area and the of 2006 after being appointed as delivery commitment that we make Enjoyment of the natural beautiful place to live and work is a council repairs and maintenance was MOVING JProduction Director at Lamplas to customers.” (Durham) Ltd, one of the UK’s leading environment has become more and primary need for all. of ‘fair’ standard but had ‘promising’ With a strategy of promoting from more important to the quality of manufacturers of glassfibre within the company, Lamplas places a Creating a Derwentside which prospects. Some of the things that composites. peoples lives, in terms of recreation recognises and values its natural the audit commission highlighted as great deal of importance on The appointment is part of the workforce development and Joe is and of health. There is no doubt that assets, utilises and accesses its good were: ON UP AT company’s strategy to strengthen the currently studying for an MBA at the the sympathetic amalgamation of resources in a sustainable way, • Customers can get access to the management team as it expands and University of Northumbria. the built and natural environment recognises the value of its own service reasonably easily and staff moves into new markets. promotes regional investment whilst place and its people and takes a “Everyone is encouraged to take attracting new businesses and new responsible position in the context are generally customer focused. LAMPLAS Joe, aged 46, joined the company in advantage of the training opportunities residents. A beautiful place to live of the wider world. • Policies and standards are clear to 1986 as a laminator and worked his available to help broaden their skills and work is a primary need for all. way through a number of positions and qualifications,” he said. “In the The Derwentside Local strategic customers, and written material up Sustainability is about ensuring a including team leader, supervisor and, long-term, it benefits the company Partnership have outlined a number to date and well presented. better quality of life for you and most recently, General Manager to his and the individual”. of key issues which are key to the future generations. • Levels of customer satisfaction new role. He is responsible for BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT regeneration and sustenance of the are sound and improving. overseeing the company’s two sites The natural environment of The company has also appointed environment and improvement of in Derwentside where 100 people are Derwentside is one of great beauty; There is a solid structure for tenant Michael Gallagher as Business housing. employed. Development Manager. ancient wooded valleys link the high involvement. Residents are able to These include: become involved in decision making “Lamplas is already a leading Michael, who is 41 and lives in western moors to the pastoral east of • Sustainability in the generation, the district. Sustainable, early in a range of ways. Representatives supplier in the UK,” he said, “We Chester-le-Street, will play a major regeneration and conservation of have many years of experience in the exploitation of natural resources were closely involved in the stock role in taking the expanding company the built environment through a leisure vehicle market and supply into new markets. He spent the first resulted in a built environment where options appraisal. major caravan and holiday home co-ordinated approach to the 13 years of his career with Lamplas local materials were used to generate The capital programmes have had manufacturers. We have successfully regeneration of town and and, since 1994, has gained wide a vernacular architecture and industry villages centres. clear aims and have delivered good moved into domestic ware and are peculiar to the district. In the last 200 now targeting a number of new sales experience in a number of • Promote, encourage and publicise outcomes against those aims in terms years, close-knit communities have markets including industrial different industries. best practice principles for of home improvements including grown up around industry and security. equipment.” “I’m delighted to be back with sustainable construction and Lamplas,” said Michael “The mining with a distinctive regional There is positive performance across Operations Director Keith Siddle, said: design. company is already a UK leader in a character and sense of place. all priorities of responsive repairs and “This appointment is an important part • Identify areas of housing in ‘low of our strategy to take the company very competitive sector and continues Recent years have seen the decline of performance is improving. demand’ within the district and to forward to the next stage in its to expand. There is a great deal of the District’s traditional industries. develop and implement Tenant satisfaction with responsive development. Joe has more than 20 potential for Lamplas in new markets Towns and Villages that grew because sustainable solutions. repairs is sound and improving. years of invaluable experience in the across the UK and beyond and I am of the industries no longer have that • Reduce the number of long term Performance on reletting empty industry and has played a vital role in looking forward to the challenge.” association and their character is vacant dwellings and the number homes has much improved over changing. The link between the of private sector homes which are the past two years and is now natural resource and the modern unfit for human habitation reasonable. world of work and housing is no longer an obvious one. • To develop activities to contribute Empty homes are repaired to a to delivery of biodiversity action reasonable standard. National transport links mean that the plans. region no longer needs to be self- Gas appliances are being serviced sufficient. At the same time Housing effectively (99.26 per cent enjoyment of the natural environment Derwentside average house prices compliance); and Innovative sources has become more and more Average Cost: £103,442 of investment have been found to important to the quality of peoples Detached: £199,198 improve council homes, including lives, in terms of recreation and of Semi-detached: £113,940 income from sale of hard to let health. There is no doubt that the Terraced: £75,590 homes, and through partnerships sympathetic joining together of the Flat: £70,921 with the private sector on built and natural environment A recent study by the housing regeneration schemes.

ISSUES

ISSUE:Poor provision of public and sustainable ISSUE: The non-sustainable use of natural resources transport and the effect of increased traffic on quality Aim: To protect and improve the quality of natural of life resources Aim: To reduce the adverse effects of increased traffic Aim: To raise awareness of the importance of on the environment and encourage the use of public Derwentside’s natural resources and potential and sustainable transport impacts upon it. Objectives:To encourage more people to use other Objectives:To promote the use of renewable energy forms of transport than the private car for local in new developments. journeys To decrease the amount of waste being tipped or To reduce the number of vehicle journeys transported and increase the amount of waste recycled, composted or reused. To reduce the conflict between pedestrians and vehicles.

38 2006 Derwentside Business Directory 2006 Derwentside Business Directory 39 safety

safetysafety inin thethe communitycommunity

levels of crime can have relatively delivering citizenship education to support and training for LA established industrial estates have little impact on levels of fear of year nine pupils. provided cameras in ward areas. grown and the expanding residential crime, which are heavily influenced Bogus Official Seminars The main contact number for the community is served by a central by the media and some visible A partnership with local authority district police services are shopping area. Agriculture Crime reduction and community symptoms of neighbourhood and Age Concern aimed at predominates in the rural area Consett: 01207 504204 surrounding Consett. safety has a key role in the process decline, not all of which appear delivering security advice to the Stanley: 01207 232144 of social and economic regeneration in Derwentside. elderly in local venues. The station borders with both For more information visit the in Derwentside. Crime and disorder, The district wide fear of crime Retail Crime Seminars Northumberland and Tyne and Wear and the fear which they generate survey in 2001 has shown that Durham Constabulary website at: and provides reinforcements into A partnership with the local www.durham.police.uk blights local communities. They cost people’s perception is that the level authority and the private sector their fire and rescue service in the Durham Fire & Rescue Service local businesses and public services of crime in the district has remained aimed at elivering security and event of a large incident. Durham & Darlington Fire and a great deal of money, and of unaltered during the audit period. personal safety advice to local The region therefore has good fire Rescue Service encompasses the course, make lives a misery for their This is something that the businesses. services and is well prepared to victims. Partnership will seek to address district of Derwentside and is based Diversionary Activity Programme continue serving the area in fire Derwentside has one of the lowest during this next strategy. in the Wear Valley area. County Assist in the delivery of diversionary prevention for many years to come. levels of crime in the country. Durham & Darlington Fire & Rescue Emergency services activity programmes for young Consett fire station Telephone During the period 1999-2002 crime Service is working in partnership Durham Constabulary people with Stanley Youth Centre number: 01207 502 912 levels fell by an impressive 15%. with other agencies to provide a Policing in the area of Derwentside and Connexions. seamless and integrated service to North East Ambulance This is testament to the is mainly carried out from the Police Farmwatch promote and support safe, healthy, The North East Ambulance Service The Accident and Emergency (A&E) effectiveness of partnership working stations in Consett and Stanley. The between key agencies, the Police, A partnership with local authority, caring, diverse and socially balanced NHS Trust was formed in 1999 tier of the service employs 750 staff, spread out nature of the district and the District and County Councils and County Council and the private communities. following the merger of of which approximately 52% are the number of wards which feature Northumbria and Durham a wide range of organisations and sector to assist in the dissemination In a recent government survey the paramedics who deal with, on highly in the multiple depravation Ambulance Services. groups from the public, private, of security advice and items of service received a ‘Fair’ rating for its average, 600 emergency calls and index, make the area notoriously It covers the counties of voluntary and community sectors interest to the farming community, fire service throughout the county. 300 GP Urgent calls every day. The hard to police effectively. The police helping with reassurance. Although this isn’t a great result Northumberland, Tyne and Wear right across the district. Much and Durham, an area of Patient Transport Service (PTS) tier service has therefore set up a Training progress has been made over the progress has been made towards approximately 3000 square miles, employs 465 staff, who carry out number of initiatives in the area to last couple of years and some sound tackling the local problems that can Assist in the delivery of training and is bordered with Scotland to the approximately 3900 patient journeys improve the service and help instil foundations have been laid for the undermine the quality of life for to partner agencies with personal north, Cumbria to the west and every week day, and undertake 4.03 a certain confidence in policing in future. everyone living, working and safety, conflict management, crime North Yorkshire to the south. A million miles per year. The Trust has Derwentside. visiting the district. reduction techniques, problem The main fire station in the area is workforce of just 1385 people serves 100 ambulance car service drivers Derwentside is committed to Getwise solving and hate crime. Design, Consett and it is situated in Villa a population of 2 million. who work on a voluntary basis and A partnership based approach to implement and deliver training to working together to continue the Real on the outskirts of Consett The main headquarters is situated undertake around 194,000 journeys drug awareness education in the Durham Constabulary PCSO’s. downward pressure on crime and town centre. It was opened by on Amethyst Road on the Newcastle per year. disorder, and will continue to set schools, using the Derwentside County Councillor Don Robson, School Watch Business Park, where the control The North East ambulance service challenging targets to achieve Drug Workers Forum. This project Implemented through school C.B.E., D.L. on the 16th October 1997 complex and other administrative provide 999 services, air ambulance further reductions in crime and is aimed at years 6 and 9. It is holiday periods to make sure that and was designed to replace the old offices are housed throughout the services and ambulance transport disorder and real improvements delivered through carousel-based the schools in the area stay secure. station in Delves Lane which gave region, there are 55 Trust locations workshops covering many different services in the region. to local quality of life. Local Authority Liason fire cover to Consett since 1960. including 44 ambulance stations, aspects of drug and alcohol Unfortunately, the fear of crime has Assist the local authority with their The industry within Consett’s station including two Air Support Units, education. been harder to tackle as some grants procedure regarding Private area is now mainly light engineering, most of which are staffed 24 hours To contact the North East ambulance people will always feel unsafe as Destroying the Myths Sector Grants, Dwelling Security manufacturing and service industries per day. There are also seven service call 0191 273 1212 a consequence of their personal A partnership approach with YOT Grants. Planning support for new and there is also a medium sized stand-by stations, mainly in rural or visit the website at circumstances. Reducing actual and the Prison Service aimed at build housing estates. CCTV chemical works at Crookhall. Well areas. www.neambulance.nhs.uk

40 2006 Derwentside Business Directory 2006 Derwentside Business Directory 41 Derwentside has an already attractive The Council is committed to improving environment, but there is a need to protect it against pollution and community togetherness and giving the vandalism. The district also realises the real need to increase recycling community more of a say in what and promote and maintain local beauty spots: happens in local government • Improve and protect the local environment. • Improve parks and play areas. • Encourage more waste recycling. Waste recycling, road and highways searches, updating your CV or maintenance, social care and health, finding a relevant course to help • Provide and encourage a range of fostering and adoption, and planning you into employment. suitable housing which meets the issues are all part of the County INFORMATION FOR THE needs and aspirations of current Council’s remit. and prospective residents. COMMUNITY IT’S ALL HAPPENING AT YOUR The County Council, the district Initiatives planned for this year LIBRARY council and other community include: Refuse Fleet is to be A range of information is available partners have set up a number of renewed; an alternative weekly for every one of Derwentside’s 85,000 Community Information Points collection service of domestic and residents. Whether you’re looking for across Derwentside to provide a recyclable waste to be introduced; a starting point for research on central point for anyone looking for you and your a compensation scheme for missed family histories, a business idea or details on a wide range of subjects. appointments is to be introduced by finding out about first steps in The Points are placed in community Building Services; plus a few smaller learning a new language, your local schemes to keep Derwentside green. locations including Annfield Plain, council library has a vast array of informa- Consett and South Moor libraries, a To deliver a learning community tion at your fingertips. number of community centres and Increasing the standards of education There are five libraries in the CVS office in Stanley. The in Derwentside is of the utmost Derwentside with a further two trailer facilities are designed for anyone in Key Developments say in what happens in local initiatives are planned including: importance, so that the region does libraries that call at Langley Park and local communities, from teenagers government: implementing smoke free policy for Following on from the success not get left in the past. The council Leadgate. The libraries at Annfield to pensioners, to tap into information the council; delivery of a local of the last year, the district of • Increase the community’s wants to free up the pathways Plain, Consett, Lanchester, South about council services, local events, ‘Whole sports plan’; Developing a Derwentside has set out a number opportunity to make a decision. through learning and raise the Moor and Stanley offer all you’d health, housing, benefits, jobs and joint public health team; Continuing of key developments to further ambition of the people in the area: expect and more. Obviously access other opportunities. • Create a greater sense of pride. work on the Stanley Super Play Park improve the area in the corporate • Increase access to learning to thousands of books, but did you There is also the chance to use and much more. plan update 2005. This document • Regenerate the most deprived materials and opportunities know your local library can put the printers and scanners and get hold sets out the key areas in which there communities. To deliver an economically through ICT. entire world at your finger tips? of a range of leaflets and brochures. are plans for development. Such as successful place • Ensure that the District’s Ethnic • Raise aspirations by supporting an As well as the use of computers A GOOD START looking at health, crime, community, The council wants to make Minorities enjoy the same quality improvement in education and skill with all the software packages you’d The future of Derwentside is its environment and learning. Derwentside into an economically of DDC services as other level. expect, there is free access to the children and young people. And the successful part of the region so that To deliver a safer place Derwentside residents. To achieve a learning community a internet and email, opening up a Council’s schools offer pupils the business can continue to prosper Derwentside District Council is Some of the initiatives set up to series of initiatives are planned such whole new way to research your best possible start as they find their and the quality of life for people in committed to making the district a achieve these aims are to produce as: a series of workplace seminars to chosen topic. There are also video way into jobs, training and higher the region can improve: safer place to live, not only through a youth strategy: the ‘SPICE IT UP’ be delivered to update senior conferencing facilities for you to education. the prevention of crime but also • Increase the number of new grant scheme; events to celebrate managers on developing issues; speak directly to people who can As well as the area’s 48 schools, through safer working business developments in the young people from Derwentside; community training will be delivered give you help and advice on job Derwentside is also served by Sure policies. Below are the key areas: Mobile cinema equipment; new arts region. as part of the Aspirations Begin • Reducing the fear of crime is one programmes; plus a number of • Invest in the vitality and viability of @ Home Project; ICT trainees of the districts main aims over the other diverse projects. the districts commercial centres . for the Aspirations Begin @ Home Project will be employed and enrol next year. Improve the Health of the • Develop and retain employment population and reduce inequalities on the Council’s training programme • Reduce the amount of accidents opportunities. and many more smaller projects. in the workplace. Health in the region has been identified as another area in need • Opening of a further 20,000 sq ft of Council Services • Reduce domestic violence. of improvement, looking after the floor-space at Consett Business Derwentside is really moving and • Reduce anti-social behaviour. citizens of the region and making Park. Durham County Council is at the To help achieve these aims the sure they have access to good • Bid and secure necessary funding heart of much of the good work in Council have set out initiatives such quality health care is key to the for the development of identified the district. From Burnopfield to Esh, as CCTV cameras across the district, development plan: sites for office and factory space. Lanchester to Castleside, the addressing issues like arson, • Protect and promote health. • Secure funding for the Council’s work touches many areas encourage neighbourhood watches • Improve care and support for older development of further modern of people’s lives as it works on a and many more initiatives to help people. business space at Consett Business wide variety of services for local make Derwentside safer. Park. people from birth, through • Improve care and support for early-years schooling, to To deliver a place with strong, vulnerable groups. These and other initiatives are employment and into retirement. cohesive communities • Reduce poverty. planned to improve the regional The Council is committed to economic growth. The Council offers services ranging improving community togetherness To improve the state of the health from street lighting to schools, system in the area a number of To create an attractive and libraries to local nature reserves. and giving the community more of a sustainable environment 42 2006 Derwentside Business Directory 2006 Derwentside Business Directory 43 Start developments which aim to and Chapman’s Well near Stanley householders a list of reputable give pre-school children the best offer local communities a quiet traders that have gone through possible start in life. The schemes haven for plants and wildlife. criminal records checks and had their also offer their families help with GET A LITTLE EXTRA CARE work history checked to help prevent education, courses, training and Caring for older people in a new unscrupulous cold-calling traders. practical advice on parenting. way is the aim of the Maple Court Trading Standards also has a range The two Sure Start local programmes Extra Care centre in Consett. The of help for businesses and - Sure Start Stanley and West development is part of six consumers. Derwentside Sure Start - provide award-winning Extra Care sites MORE INFORMATION children under five with services and across the County that offer an This is just a selection of the services activities to help them flourish before alternative to traditional care homes the County Council provides in they go to school. for older people. Residents live in Derwentside. For more details on THE QUIET LIFE their own self-contained flat and are these or any other Council service Those looking for the quiet life are given the chance to live independent- visit: www.durham.gov.uk, call the looking in the right place in ly or receive the care and support Helpdesk on 0191 383 4567, or email Derwentside. With lovely country- services that they need. [email protected] side, nature reserves and opportuni- KNOW YOUR RIGHTS ties to ‘live the outdoor life’, the area The County Council’s Welfare Rights is criss-crossed with footpaths and team, based in the Social Care and bridleways allowing you to get to the Health offices on Front Street in heart of the countryside. Stanley, gives information and advice The area is also home to three of on benefits and what you’re entitled the County Council’s Local Nature to. Get a benefits check, free and Reserves. Although there are other confidential advice and get nature reserves in the area, Local represented at benefits tribunals. Nature Reserves are specially A new registered traders scheme has designated by English Nature and also been launched by a partnership, the three sites at: Greencroft Heath, including the Council’s Trading Annfield Plain; Tanfield Lea Marsh Standards team. The scheme offers

44 2006 Derwentside Business Directory Technology project over a two-year period. tourismtourism The scheme was set up to address the severe lack of sign-up to high-speed internet connections in the county despite the availability of broadband throughout Durham. As a result of the project 70 businesses ranging from sole traders to multi-national organisations are now connected transport & to broadband, with the remaining being schools, community centres, communication libraries and voluntary organisations within County Durham. North East in derwentside Technology Park (Netpark) - the hub for knowledge based businesses and activity in the county has also had broadband installed as a result of the project. ocal transport plays a key role Ports Alan Hodgson, Director of Customer in supporting regional and local The ports of Tyne and Sunderland Services at Durham County Council erwentside is not only an area simply watching the water lapping opportunity to see and touch Lprosperity, economic growth are close by and are two major has led the scheme, which has been steeped in proud history and against the shoreline or the sight of a animals at close quarters. There is and enhancing quality of life. In a import and export areas in the UK. delivered by DurhamNet - a Dheritage, but it’s also host to variety of waterfowl coming in to a wide range of friendly animals to district like Derwentside, it is As well as providing import and partnership between Derwentside some of England’s most beautiful land. Further south, near meet face to face, including fluffy important that there is suitable export services. A number of District Council and Durham County landscapes. And with the leisure and Wolsingham, Tunstall Reservoir is a chicks, baby lambs, pigs, donkeys, access to jobs and services, in ways commercial cruise ships sail in and Council. He said: “The Development tourism booming in the North East, delightfully compact and intimate ponies and rabbits. that are sustainable and reduce out of these ports, to Scandinavia of the Last Mile Technology project problems with congestion, pollution and the Baltic. Derwentside is an excellent base from piece of water, much of which is Then there are the more unusual has proved extremely valuable in which to visit some of the region’s surrounded by dense woodland. and safety. It’s often the case that local animals such as the llamas, helping a broad range of biggest attractions. Overall the North east has been transport links determine whether organisations get connected as Causey arch wallabies and Highland Cattle. allocated £573 million pounds for people move in and around the there was previously severe market There are a whole host of attractions Nearby, not far from Stanley, Causey Farm trailer rides, woodland and the period 2001-2006 to develop the area, and Derwentside is working failure in County Durham. within Derwentside, offering Arch is the world’s oldest surviving riverside walks. Farm teashop and transport infrastructure. closely with the Department of “In this world of technology having something for people of all ages. railway bridge. Construction began in children’s play area. Transport to ensure that the district’s 1725 and it stands 80 feet high above Bus links an email address is as important as A trek through the area will only Near Lanchester, Durham, DH7 0TA. strategies are well evidenced and a wooded gorge. This is In January 2005, Derwentside having a postal address to allow serve to illustrate why the area still supported in their delivery. effective communications, so it was harbours a fascinating heritage and quite an area for ‘firsts’, for right Tel: 01388 731333. or District Council unveiled plans to E-mail: [email protected] revamp Stanley’s public transport, Cycling essential we helped organisations history whilst also demonstrating that alongside the Arch is the world’s including a new bus station in the One of the initiatives that get connected.” Derwentside is in an era of change. oldest existing Derwentside have taken on this year railway. Visitors town centre. The solar-powered bus DurhamNet staff take care of the The river and reservoir is to try and encourage people to can still enjoy a Derwentside is not only an station will link Front Street’s ‘technical’ side, from installation of North Durham is different again, with pedestrian zone and the retail and leave their cars at home in favour of equipment to providing email three-mile steam the River Derwent as its focus, the supermarket areas. The building will walking or cycling. With this in mind addresses - whatever the need. journey on the area steeped in proud history the council and a range of partners third of the major rivers running include photovoltaic energy David Allison, Director of Business Tanfield Railway are working together to develop through the County. It is a place of generation technology, which and Industry at One NorthEast said: and take in the and heritage, but it’s also host ‘Greenways’ throughout the district. contrasts, of wooded river ravines converts daylight into electricity, “To achieve nearly double the target impressive ‘Greenways’ are traffic free cycle and valleys, dramatic moorland and and will provide its power. figures is a real achievement for the collection of to some of England’s most and pedestrian routes which link rocky crags. The £4m project is being funded by Development of the Last Mile vintage locos settlements and run through plush One NorthEast, Derwentside District Technology scheme and a huge Recent years have seen many and Victorian beautiful landscapes countryside. Council, Durham County Council boost for organisations and busi- organisations working to improve carriages housed and DTI’s Energy Saving Trust, and Integrated travel measures and nesses in County Durham. water quality and riverbanks and the in Britain’s oldest engine shed. Durham Cathedral public transport improvements are is due to be completed by the early “Having access to broadband is Derwent has benefited with an A magnificent Norman cathedral, also planned in the Stanley and North Durham has its own country part of 2006 instrumental for so many business- increase in fish numbers which has, founded in 1093, and the focus of Consett areas. With Major highway park in the form of Pow Hill, set in Airports es today and can greatly assist the in turn, led to the return of otters. Christian worship in the Diocese of maintenance a key part of moorland overlooking the Derwent running of an organisation particu- Even ten years ago otters were a rari- Derwentside is well positioned in establishing a bright future for Reservoir, alongside the Durham. The present Cathedral has larly those in more remote areas, so ty in the County, now they have the area, although it does not have the area. Edmundbyers to Blanchland road. stood on this spot as a place of good rail links, many of the regions to have 250 organisations in County become well established. The reserve has some delightful prayer and pilgrimage for over 900 largest towns and cities are within a Communication Durham now up to speed thanks to Water is an important part of the woodland walks and a stream runs years. It contains the remains of short drive or bus journey. 20-30 Around 250 organisations and this project is excellent news. appeal of north Durham and nowhere through the sheltered valley. Cuthbert, the saintly seventh-century minutes is all it will take to get you businesses in County Durham are more so than at the bishop of Lindisfarne; it also holds the to Newcastle, Sunderland, Durham now up to speed thanks to a project Hall Hill Farm popular Derwent Reservoir, close tomb of Bede, the chronicler of or Middlesborough. Derwentside’s that exceeded expectations. Throughout the County there are to the County’s northern boundary. Cuthbert’s life and the first English main towns are also easily Regional development agency One attractions that help you understand Fed by the River Derwent, the historian. It is one of the most accessible from Newcastle and NorthEast provided over £1million more about County Durham’s flora reservoir is a magnet for sailing beautiful buildings in England (Bill Durham and Tees Valley airports, to the County Durham Economic and fauna. Hall Hill Farm near craft of all types and sizes. Bryson called it ‘the best Cathedral on both of which are served by regular Partnership to support the Lanchester is a family farm set in planet earth’), and part of a World domestic and international flights. Development of Last Mile Even those on dry land can enjoy attractive countryside with

46 2006 Derwentside Business Directory 2006 Derwentside Business Directory 47 Heritage Site. Visitors can see the Costumed staff welcome visitors to The Turner prize winning Terris is an ideal way to keep fit in a Monk’s Dormitory, Tower, Treasury the turn of the century town with Novalis sculpture by Tony Cragg leisurely way and with the range of Museum and Audio-visual shops, houses, working pub, dominates the landscape above the golf courses in the area there is presentations. newspaper office, garage, sweetshop old Consett Steelworks Site. The 20 always something to keep your golf and sweet factory. Guided tours are feet high stainless steel surveying skills honed. For more information call: given underground at a real “drift” instruments symbolise the economic 0191 386 4266 or visit S h op p in g mine in the Colliery Village and a row regeneration of the area. They make www.durhamcathedral.co.uk MetroCentre of pit cottages shows how the pitmen up just one of a series of open-air Situated about half an hour from Durham Castle and their families lived. There is a sculptures along the C2C route and Derwentside, the Metro Centre is Dating from 1072, one of the largest Methodist Chapel and Village School are well worth the visit. one of the largest shopping Norman castles and one of the grand- here too. Home Farm has traditional Diggerland Leisure activities complexes in Europe and houses breeds of livestock and poultry and a some of the world leading shops est Romanesque palaces to survive in Langley Park, Co Durham England. The castle was the seat of large farmhouse kitchen, with dairy and brand names. From House of and bailiff’s office. The Railway Diggerland is a unique Adventure and shopping the Prince Bishops until 1832. Frazer to Marks & Spencer to GAP, Station is complete with goods yard, Park, revolving around the fascination Together with the cathedral, the castle you can find shops to meet any signal box, locomotives and rolling that children have for mechanical is a World Heritage Site. It now need. The Metro Centre also caters stock. All these attractions and more diggers. With a kids club, dumper houses University College, foundation for any palet, with a range of provide an excellent day out for racing and the opportunity to book restaurants and cafes throughout so college of Durham University, and is Empire theatre has a large stage, and seating for a people of all ages. birthday parties, Diggerland capacity audience of 430 people. why not explore and discover the a conference, banqueting and holiday The original building was opened guarantees a fun, exciting and action exciting world of Retail Therapy at For more information visit in 1885 as a variety hall and The retractable style of the seating centre in vacations. packed day for all ages. Attractions Metro Centre. www.Beamish.org.uk or subsequently modified in 1912 by brings about flexible use of this Durham City. include rides, drives and static Tel: 01207 231811. the additions of, what was then, the large space accommodating Metroland Tel: 0191 334 3800. everything from live theatre and Fax: 01207 290933. displays, along with play areas and latest cinema equipment. The The Metro Centre is not only a great E-mail: [email protected] cinema to tea dances and lavish competitions for young children and Empire is therefore synonymous place to shop it also has great Derwent Valley Country Park wedding receptions. On the same Beamish, The North Of England infants. Children will enjoy the with the cultural and social history leisure facilities. The MetroLand is A 12 mile walk along former railway floor a lounge bar combines with Open Air Museum opportunity to ride and drive different of Consett which itself grew with the home to 12 Major attractions, as in the Derwent Valley from Swalwell gallery space to produce an North Durham is also home to one types of machines from JCB’s to founding of Consett Iron Company well as MrB’s Amusement Arcade. Visitor Centre near the centre of interesting but casual area to relax Dump Trucks and Mini JCB Diggers, in 1840. Over a century on, the Whether you’re looking for a fun of the finest museums of its type Tyneside to Lydgett’s Junction, in. On the first floor, the Derwent all under strict supervision from fully venue continues to play a central filled day out, or just passing anywhere in the world. Beamish, The Consett. Includes Thornley Woodland Suite with its own bar provides an trained instructors. role in the artistic and social life of through whilst shopping, you are North of England Open Air Museum, Centre near Winlaton Mill, picnic intimate and informal setting for the district. Occasionally the theatre bound to find something to keep vividly recreates life in the North of areas at Rowlands Gill, Ebchester and For more information visit seminars, smaller family becomes the venue for charity you entertained. England in the early 1800s and 1900s. Shotley Bridge. www.diggerland.com celebrations and children’s activities. nights to help raise funds for worthy For the more thrill seeking type, For more information causes. there are exciting rides like The New Tel: 01207 218899 or Rollercoaster, Whirling Waltzer and As a community facility they don’t E-mail: The Wonderful Waveswinger. come better than the Empire. In [email protected] comparison, the Empire stages Younger children or the less daring Cycling can take a leisurely ride around the professional acts and entertainment Cycling in the region is well catered from all over the UK, and in Park on the Terrific Train, or take to for, with Derwentside having some the Skies in ‘My Beautiful Balloons’ conjunction with Derwentside’s Arts of the most beautiful and scenic Development Programme, has Ferris wheel. Metroland therefore cycle routes in the region. In total provides the ideal day out for the accommodated international groups there are around seven major cycle kids. such as the Russian Philharmonic routes in the area. Orchestra, Window on Korea, and The main routes are, the Bowes Other shopping experiences the Romanian Folk Group. The railway route (3 miles), Consett and The Metro Centre may be the largest Empire is now the only remaining Sunderland railway route (10 miles), shopping centre of its kind in traditional theatre in Durham Derwent walk cycle route (9 miles), Europe, but the region also boasts County. Lanchester Valley route (9 miles), many other shopping experiences. For more information South Stanley green corridor (3 From the hustle and bustle of city Tel: 01207 218171 or miles), Waskerley way (9 miles) and shopping to the calm lazy village E-mail: [email protected] the Kyo greenway (3 miles). shops, the North East caters for all. Lamplight arts centre The routes are mainly old railway Newcastle, Sunderland and Built in 1960, it was opened to the lines which have been reclaimed to Durham cities provide the region with this superb public on 7th January 1961 with The three main cities of the region cycling network. Whether you are a rehearsal rooms being added to the provide a very different shopping serious cycler or a family wanting a main building in the early 70’s. In experience to the Metro Centre. serene day out Derwentside has the They house some of the countries 1991, Derwentside District Council, facilities and scenery to provide an most famous brands and have more with aid from the RECHAR grant excellent days cycling. scheme, carried out a complete of a city shopping feel, with outdoor Golf shopping, cafes and outstanding refurbishment programme which There are a number of high quality architecture. The cities posses more brought the building up to its golf courses in and around the of a cosmopolitan feel where a lazy present day standard. region, Consett, Hobson, Garesfield, amble around the shops can be A variety of workshops, children’s Roseberry grange, South Moor and interspersed by a meal in a top film and shows, ensures strong Slaley Hall. Each of the courses quality restaurant. If you want top support from younger members of provides something different for the quality city centre shopping look no derwentside the district. The main auditorium amateur or professional golfer. Golf further.

48 2006 Derwentside Business Directory 2006 Derwentside Business Directory 49 purpose-built Scandinavian style Fund). Also they are developing conference suite nestling in a as a TUC (Trades Union Congress) breathtaking natural location, with supported learning centre working an unrivalled range of land and with ULRs (Union Learning Reps.) water-based activities at hand. to deliver a variety of learndirect training schemes. The conference suite allows many different configurations for up to 70 Derwentside Training is a training participants, available all year round and testing centre based near for daily or longer-stay delegates. Consett. They offer a lot of different Luxury accommodation is available schemes, many of them free some in self-contained forest lodges, with for people and some for businesses. high quality cuisine provided in our You do not have to be able to get to newly-extended lakeside restaurant. volunteering the centre to benefit from courses, For more information telephone: as they run distance learning 01434 250294 or email schemes and also provide free [email protected] and training crèche facilities for parents. Ramside Hall While the training facility is Ramside Hall has a number of supported by Derwentside District conference facilities to cater for any Council and work with many kind of business need. It has twelve different companies, Derwentside Conference and Banqueting Rooms Training is an independent business. catering for 2 to 400 guests, the erwentside Council for Are your circumstances likely to They offer training services to help Green Room, the Restaurant and the Voluntary Services is a change in the near future? district-wide voluntary you up-skill/re-skill your employees eighty fine Bedrooms. D What period of time can you commit organisation set up and run by local in many different areas, including: The Bishops Suite is a multi purpose to volunteering? groups to support, promote and ICT-Derwentside training are a Conference and Banqueting Suite develop local voluntary action. For example, one day, one month, which divides into five separate six months? Some voluntary learndirect training centre and Whether you’re at school, college, areas The Ballroom and Ballroom projects are completely flexible support the ECDL (European unemployed or at work - if you have Foyer are elegantly decorated and about how long you can give them Computer Driving Licence) as well some spare time Derwentside CVS while others require a minimum as many other qualifications. corporate services have multi-purpose facilities with can offer you exciting and enjoyable good lighting and resources. commitment. Check with the opportunities that could change Volunteer Bureau before you decide Health and Safety - they are an and hospitality The Green Room, opened in October your life. approved centre with the CIEH on a project. 2004, is the latest edition to the If that sounds good for you, then How much time do you wish to (Chartered Institute of conference facilities. Seating 22 why don’t you consider commit to volunteering? Environmental health) and, in Boardroom Style, with volunteering… For example, one day a week, one partnership with Safety Set North air-conditioning, LCD projector, large day a month, more or less? East Ltd., and deliver certificates in …there’s more to it than you think! screen, natural daylight, comfortable What times of the day are you free? basic Health & Safety, Manual chairs and quality finishes. Volunteering is great for;Gaining Do you need to arrange child care? Handling and COSHH (Control of hands-on experience; Increasing They also have four Boardrooms. Do you have your own transport? Substances Hazardous to Health). These are more suited to smaller your self-confidence; Developing If not, is it easy for you to use public Literacy/numeracy-as part of the meetings, interviews or private new career directions; Improving transport? government’s ETP (employer orporate services and views of the playing area, Lumley dinner parties. your C.V.; Learning new skills; hospitality are an integral Castle and the Durham Countryside. Taking on responsibilities; Getting Volunteering presents itself as a training pilots) strategy, they are Cpart of business start up and These facilities are further For more information visit your skills and experiences superb opportunity to develop your taking part in the eQ8 scheme sustainability. Whether you need to complemented by the popular www.ramisdehallhotel.co.uk or recognised; Having fun. skills and help other people who promoting Skills for Life. Tel (0191) 386 5282 hold a conference or hold an Austin’s Bar & Bistro which is open Some questions to ask yourself need it. Not only are you improving National Certificate for Door important meeting with a client you to the public seven days a week and If you are clear about why you want the lives of others you are enriching Supervisors-They are a City & might need a pleasant setting or has been awarded an AA Rosette. Newcastle and Sunderland your own. to volunteer then you may have Guilds accredited training and welcoming atmosphere. This section The Club offers a wide range of football grounds some idea about the sort of Training testing centre for the new of the directory aims to point those services, from cricket hospitality Newcastle and Sunderland both volunteering you want to undertake. Derwentside Training was founded mandatory qualification for door businesses in the right direction. There are, however, a number of at domestic and international also offer high quality business in 1981 by Derwentside District supervisors and front-line security matches to conferences and other things which may influence the conference facilities, for a range of Council to help with the staff. type of volunteering that you do. The Durham County Cricket Club wedding receptions. business and social conferences. regeneration of Derwentside after following questions should help you If you are over 16, they can give you A Venue That Passes the Test For more information Both facilities offer a number of Consett British Steel Works closed. to focus on the type of volunteering free tuition and qualifications to help The newly built stadium is situated Tel: 0191 387 1717 or conference packages, which can be tailored to meet the needs of that you would like to do and how Over the years Derwentside training you improve your Numeracy and in highly attractive and mature E-mail: have successfully developed many specific companies. much time you can give. literacy skills, leading to a nationally parkland on the banks of the River [email protected] youth and adult schemes working recognised qualification; Job and life Wear. Although located in this Keilder water conference centre Whatever your requirements for a How much time can you spare for with local employers, residents and skills-we can help you with writing secluded valley, the Riverside is The Kielder Water Conference meeting or conference centre these volunteering? community associations to provide only minutes from the A1(M) with Centre is a unique venue, the com- two venues can provide the sort of Remember your other commitments educational and work based letters, filling in forms, writing a CV extensive parking. plete high class service that will truly such as family, hobbies, education training. and budgeting IT skills impress your clients. or work so that you don’t over Specialist skills through short The impressive pavilion contains conference and training facility set They are now delivering contracts commit yourself. 19 Executive Boxes, three Executive within a spectacular lakeside Sunderland contact 0191 551 5000 for County Durham LSC (Learning courses. Lounges, a state of the art IT Centre landscape. or email: [email protected] If you are unemployed, are you and Skills Council), Jobcentre Plus Whatever your planned route for the and a suite with a seating capacity If you want a quiet and serene Newcastle contact 0191 201 8525 or committed to sign-on at a certain and Derwentside LSP (Local future Derwentside training could of 330. This range of Conference & conference centre, Kielder Water email: [email protected] time and to spend a regular amount Strategic Partnership), funded by help you acquire the skills to get you Banqueting rooms have panoramic is the inspirational choice - a of time job seeking? the NRF (Neighbourhood Renewal where you want to go.

50 2006 Derwentside Business Directory 2006 Derwentside Business Directory 51 CharmCharm ofof DurhamDurham

ou may boast about your cities, you may think them very fine but the joy you feel about them can never equal mine. YGive me Durham’s hills and valleys, her woodlands and her streams and my heart will know contentment, I’ll keep my pleasant dreams.

You may boast of flowery language, you may boast of perfect speech but I’d rather have the language that the Durham tongues can teach. There’s music in their welcome, there’s a friendly honest ring as they greet you with “what fettle”, what a comfort it can bring

Let me know the life long pleasures, that a Durham man can know, as he wanders o’er the hill tops to the valleys down below. Through Greencroft onto Leadgate, from Consett to Blackhill, then on to lovely Shotley once famous for its mill.

There’s Stanley and there’s Dipton, Lintz Green and Burnopfield, where woodland pictures greet you and beauty is revealed. While in the humble cottages there’s hearts so wondrous kind and ‘neath the Durham language there’s oft’ a cultured mind.