Darlington and Middlesbrough enterprise zones get £10m boost

More than £10m of funding will support business growth in Darlington and Middlesbrough.

The cash, from the government and the European Regional Development Fund, will be ploughed into building projects in enterprise zone sites.

It is hoped 25 businesses will be based at Central Park in Darlington, while Boho 5 in Middlesbrough is expected to support up to 250 jobs.

The Tees Valley enterprise zone is made up of 12 specific sites.

The funding package was announced by Baroness Hanham on a visit to the North East.

'Next generation'

She said the investment would act as a "catalyst for success".

The office space in Darlington is due to open in 2015. Council leader Bill Dixon said businesses had given a clear message they needed purpose-built facilities.

Boho 5 will add to a cluster of digital businesses in the Middlehaven area of Middlesbrough.

Councillor Tracy Harvey said the town had a growing reputation for its expertise in digital media and the creative industries.

"Boho 5 will play a vital role in nurturing the next generation of businesses which will define the town's future," she said.