Newcastle Helix is a 24-acre state-of-the-art innovation district in the heart of the city where industry and academia come together to advance the fields of data science, urban science and life science. Made possible by an initial £65m investment between Newcastle City Council, Newcastle University and Legal and General, Helix is regarded as one of the most successful urban regeneration schemes in the UK, combining commercial and residential space with first-class research and education facilities. The site boasts some of the region’s most progressive architecture and exemplifies the principles of sustainable urban development, such as its own District Energy Centre. It has quickly become one of the most important innovation hubs in Europe, and is home to a diverse and growing community, from university spin outs undertaking leading edge research to fast growing SMEs in tech and sustainability to well established national and multinational legal, financial and other professional services companies. Plans are being brought forward to deliver up to 750 low carbon homes, a 195-bed hotel, further commercial space and new lab space to meet demand for Newcastle’s fast-growing health and life sciences businesses. The Helix Partnership are also investing in a programme of events, placemaking and engagement activities that will continue to promote collaboration across the site and foster relations with the surrounding communities.
Size: 24 acres
Gross development value: £450m
Ownership: Newcastle City Council, Newcastle University, Legal & General.
Uses: Commercial, Educational, Residential.
Status: Middle stage scheme following completion of commercial and educational developments, with hotel, residential, retail, leisure and further commercial to be delivered.
Opportunity: Venture capital investment sought for early-stage start-ups in high-growth industries.
