North East Futures UTC

North East Futures UTC

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Project at a glance

Engineering a future-ready learning environment 

SES Engineering Services returned to Newcastle’s ambitious city centre development to deliver full MEP services for the new North East Futures UTC—a 5,030 sqm, five-storey University Technical College designed for students aged 14–19, with a specialist focus on health sciences, robotics, and IT. 

Sponsored by the University of Sunderland and partnered with all five North East universities, the UTC is part of the wider regeneration of the historic Stephenson Quarter. SES previously contributed to the transformation of this area through projects including The Rocket office block, the Crowne Plaza Hotel and Spa, and a multi-storey car park. 

The UTC is uniquely connected to the historic Hawthorn Engineering Works, once home to Robert Stephenson and Company. SES overcame the challenge of linking the new build with the heritage structure, including the creation of a lecture theatre within the Georgian building and a rooftop multi-use games area—an innovative solution driven by site constraints. 

Technical highlights 

Specialist education facility 

Heritage integration 

SES successfully connected the new UTC to the historic Hawthorn Engineering Works, preserving architectural integrity while delivering modern functionality. 

City centre regeneration 

Part of the wider Stephenson Quarter redevelopment, the UTC contributes to Newcastle’s educational and economic growth. 

Award recognition 

The project received a Highly Commended accolade at the RISE Awards 2018 in the Heritage and Restoration category.

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