The North East will benefit from 250 new jobs with DPD’s new distribution centre project.
- DPD commits to a major distribution centre at a £100m business park.
- The parcel hub is set to secure 125 jobs and generate a further 250.
- Richardson Barberry agreed a 25-year lease for a 63,000 sq ft warehouse.
- The development includes plans to expand Aycliffe Business Park.
Around 250 new jobs are forecast for the North East as a result of DPD’s recent commitment to establishing a substantial distribution centre at a newly developed £100 million business park. This project follows the parcel delivery company’s decision to operate a major hub tailored to their needs, supporting both current employment and future job creation.
DPD has entered into a lease agreement with joint venture developer Richardson Barberry for a 63,000 square foot warehouse situated on an eight-acre parcel of land at Forrest Park, near Newton Aycliffe, Durham. This venture not only strengthens County Durham’s job security by safeguarding 125 positions but also promises 250 additional job opportunities as the new facility is constructed.
Two years ago, Richardson Barberry was granted permissions to develop eight warehouses within the 1.8 million square foot Forrest Park project, potentially generating over 3,000 jobs within the next decade. These efforts are expected to contribute significantly to County Durham’s economy, aiming for gains nearing half a billion pounds.
Jon Robinson, development director for Barberry, highlighted the attractiveness of the site due to its proximity to key transport links and its availability of skilled labour, commenting on the lease agreement with DPD as a key moment for future regional development.
DPD UK, motivated by sustainability goals and a shift towards electric vehicles, sees this new hub as part of a broader strategy to reduce emissions and improve operational efficiency. The company has committed heavily to strengthening its regional networks, aiming for Net Zero emissions by 2040, a goal validated by the Science Based Targets initiative.
DPD’s new distribution centre is a pivotal development for employment and economic growth in County Durham, with lasting benefits expected from this strategic investment.
