A GROUNDBREAKING new partnership that will unlock career pathways in the built environment and develop cutting-edge skills to power the North East economy has been announced today.

Education Partnership North East (EPNE) and Northumbria University have unveiled a new partnership that will strengthen links between the two organisations, something that will come to life at the Housing Innovation and Construction Skills Academy (HICSA), a state-of-the-art facility that will educate, train, and upskill local people in housebuilding, commercial construction, modern methods and green construction techniques, including home retrofit.

In a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by Ellen Thinnesen OBE, Chief Executive of EPNE, and Professor Andy Long, Vice Chancellor of Northumbria University, the organisations have laid out plans to work together to create a cohesive strategic approach to education and skills, joining up further and higher education systems, and aligning with the priorities of the North East Combined Authority, Skills England and government’s Missions and Industrial Strategy.

The Alexandra Road Play Area remains closed following multiple incidents of deliberate vandalism, significantly extending repair timelines.

Initially closed in August due to damage to the play safety surface, costing over £5,000, the facility has since suffered further deliberate destruction. This combined damage now requires a comprehensive repair approach, effectively resetting our progress.

Despite existing CCTV coverage, authorities were unable to identify those responsible in August. However, ongoing investigations continue, with current CCTV footage under thorough review.

We strongly urge anyone with information to assist in identifying those responsible.

Our dedicated officers continue to work tirelessly to maintain and keep our play areas safe and accessible. Unfortunately, these persistent vandalism incidents have prolonged the closure of this important community facility, preventing children and families from accessing the space.

For inquiries, please contact the Town Council office at (01670) 624521

(Photograph shows Alexandra Play Area when it was installed in November 2022)

Ashington residents are invited to attend the upcoming Finance and General Services Meeting on Tuesday, December 10th, 2024 at the Town Hall (65 Station Road, Ashington, NE63 8RX) at 6:00pm.

Warmer Homes Scheme: Northumberland County Council is offering free energy-saving home improvements for eligible residents. The scheme targets homeowners and private renters with low-income households or properties with poor energy efficiency (EPC ratings D-G).

Gas Safety Services: The Council is also working with the Gas Safe Charity to provide critical home safety services. Grants of up to £500 can be accessed per household per year.

Improvement work has recently taken place at the popular Paddock Wood Play Area in North Seaton.

As the festive season approaches, the Chair of Ashington Town Council, Cllr Mark Purvis, reflects on the achievements of 2024 and shares aspirations for the year ahead. The message highlights the town’s progress, community spirit, and ongoing projects that contribute to making Ashington a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable place to live. It also acknowledges the hard work of council staff and Councillors, the dedication of community groups, and the importance of supporting one another during the holiday season.

Ashington Town Council is bringing back the popular Christmas Trail, inviting families to explore the town centre’s festive spirit from Saturday, 30th November to Sunday, 15th December 2024.

A project will take place in Ashington next year to mark the 80th Anniversary of the ending of World War II.

Ashington residents are invited to attend the upcoming Full Council Meeting on Tuesday, November 26th, 2024 at the Town Hall (65 Station Road, Ashington, NE63 8RX) at 6:00pm.

The Hirst Welfare Centre in Ashington is set to showcase its newly renovated gym facilities following a series of successful funding applications totalling over £60,000.