A major industrial and logistics scheme that could support up to 1,000 jobs has been given the go-ahead in Stockton-on-Tees.

Rula Developments has secured planning consent to deliver 775,000 sq ft of employment space at Teeslink, a 54-acre strategic site next to Eaglescliffe Train Station and just a mile from the A66.

The scheme includes detailed consent for initial infrastructure works such as a new access road and services, alongside outline consent for high-quality warehousing and ancillary employment space.

The land was bought by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council in 2021 using funding from the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority's Indigenous Growth Fund (IGF). Following a competitive tender process, Rula was appointed to bring forward the regeneration of the site.

Rula will work in partnership with the Council on £3 million of infrastructure improvements funded through the IGF, paving the way for future development. The company will then deliver plots in line with occupier demand, with freehold and leasehold opportunities available ranging from 3,000 sq ft to 500,000 sq ft.

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Construction is expected to begin later this month, with the first buildings ready for occupation by the third quarter of 2026.

Anthony Clitheroe, Development Director at Rula Developments, said: "We are delighted to secure planning consent to develop Teeslink, working in partnership with Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council. This development will unlock key strategic development land to provide much needed new logistics accommodation for local businesses.

"We plan to start preparation and enabling works on site imminently to allow the delivery of important new infrastructure and industrial/warehouse units with high ESG credentials in line with occupier demand."

Councillor Lisa Evans, Leader of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, said: "This is the next step forward in unlocking a vital employment site in our Borough which will attract businesses and bring jobs.

"Eaglescliffe is already home to huge firms and employers like Tata Consumer Products Limited and Nifco. With excellent transport links nearby, in particular with the redevelopment of Eaglescliffe Station, we’re hopeful that once complete, Teeslink will secure bring in investment and boost economic growth in the Borough.

"Rula match our high ambitions for the site and have an impressive track record and a wealth of experience. They have demonstrated their ability to operate on similar sites across the country, including Cheshire, Doncaster and Oldham. Plus, this will be their flagship scheme in the North East, with no competing sites of their own in the region.

"It's yet another demonstration of Stockton-on-Tees being the economic powerhouse of the Tees Valley. We’re a business-friendly Borough and we welcome all approaches from those interested in coming to Stockton-on-Tees or who would like to find out more."