A new cultural and community hub has officially opened in Blyth town centre as part of the £95 million Energising Blyth regeneration programme.

The Market Pavilion, delivered by Kier on behalf of Northumberland County Council and procured through the North East Procurement Organisation (NEPO) framework, features a three-screen cinema, café and flexible space for community events and creative activities. It is designed to act as a focal point for local life, entertainment and culture while helping to revitalise the town centre.

Built using modern construction methods and advanced digital tools, the project was managed with 3D modelling and drone technology to ensure quality and efficiency, while also reducing on-site waste. Sustainability features include solar panels, air source heat pumps and natural ventilation systems to reduce energy use and carbon emissions.

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Dan Doherty, regional director of Kier Construction North & Scotland, said: "We are proud to have delivered this transformative project in partnership with Northumberland County Council and Advance Northumberland. Market Pavilion is a shining example of how thoughtful design, sustainable construction and strong collaboration can create spaces that truly serve their communities.

"At Kier, we bring deep expertise in delivering complex regeneration projects across the public and cultural sectors. Our approach is always centred on the end user—ensuring that the spaces we build are inclusive, accessible and built to last. This Pavilion will not only support local businesses and cultural life but also provide a welcoming place for people to come together, now and for generations to come."

At the heart of the new Pavilion is a cinema operated by independent company Jam Jar Cinema, offering a mix of blockbuster films, local screenings and special events to make cinema more accessible for the community.

The project has already delivered local benefits, with Kier awarding contracts to local suppliers, creating seven full-time equivalent jobs during construction, and contributing more than 180 volunteer hours to community projects, including the Serenity Garden for people with dementia and cooking classes with veteran charity Forward Assist.