Budget 2025: £16m funding for STEM site in Darlington

Rachel Reeves promised funding for what was described as a “cutting-edge teaching and learning hub” for Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) at the town’s Science Park.

Darlington Science Park (Image: Stuart Boulton)

Building is expected to begin in the next five to eight months.

Darlington’s Science Park is part of the town’s Central Park development, which houses Teesside University, Darlington College, the National Horizons Centre, the National Biologics Manufacturing Centre, and the Centre for Process Innovation (CPI).

Darlington Innovation Central (Image: Stuart Boulton)

Budget documents said the project would support “clear pathways from school so young people can access high-value careers in science, technology, engineering and maths.”

Lola McEvoy, MP for Darlington, said: “This cutting-edge Government-funded STEM Centre will make sure all of us can train and upskill in the sectors of the future, so we can benefit from the world-leading industrial excellence on our doorstep.

The Darlington Science Park (Image: Stuart Boulton)

“We deserve it, and the Government has invested in us.

“I campaigned on delivering new green skilled jobs for local people, and this STEM centre will future-proof Darlington’s reputation as the place where great ideas become world-changing industries.

Darlington MP Lola McEvoy (Image: Stuart Boulton)

“We have no limit on our ambition, but for too long, the opportunities have been too few. That changes today.

“This Labour Government is committed to delivering the workforce industry needs, and the Chancellor knows that Darlington will provide the talent. Full STEM ahead.”

The project is also receiving £5m from the Government’s ‘Pride in Place’ fund.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves (Image: James Manning/PA MEDIA)

Chancellor Rachel Reeves said: “We’re delivering for Darlington with £16 million for the STEM Centre of Excellence, creating opportunity for young people and clear routes from school into good jobs with decent pay.

“This investment will create pathways into careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics for everyone, not just those who can afford expensive degrees.

“Darlington worked hard for this funding and won it, as this government backs local communities with real investment that delivers tangible results, jobs, skills, and opportunities for working families.

“For too long, people in Darlington have been let down by the Tories in Westminster. That ends now.

“This Labour government is backing Darlington with £16m of funding to support the new STEM Centre, because we know that with proper investment we can deliver a renewed town, good local jobs and an economy that works for working people.”

Councillor Steve Harker, Darlington Council Leader, added: “This is fantastic news. I’m really pleased to see our Labour chancellor investing in Darlington.

“The STEM centre will enable us to support more young people in gaining the skills they need to become the engineers, scientists of the future.

“Giving them access to high-skilled and well-paid jobs. And it’s giving local industries the confidence that there will be suitably qualified people to fill future vacancies – allowing local businesses to grow. It’s a win-win.”