The Ward Hadaway North East Fastest 50 awards are a celebration of the spirit of innovation, determination and success of regional businesses.
From Tyne and Wear to Teesside, they shine a spotlight on businesses that have not only weathered ongoing challenges but have thrived, contributing to the economic and social fabric of our region. With 20% of the companies in this year’s list operating within the construction sector, the 2024 North East Fastest 50 offers a unique reflection of how the industry is playing a pivotal role in driving regional development.
“The North East's strength in building and construction is more than just a legacy - it is deeply embedded in the region’s DNA,” explains Jen Hartley. "Construction has been central to the region for decades, with many of the Ƶ’s leading construction firms originating here. This sector is key to future economic growth. With large-scale infrastructure projects, renewable energy developments, data centres and innovative tech hubs emerging across the region, the demand from the construction and built environment sector has never been higher.
“What will be crucial to ensuring we reach our growth potential is the partnership between the private and public sectors, which is vital for continued development,” she adds. “I cannot wait to meet the region’s Fastest 50 growing businesses and celebrate their collective success, while also discussing how collaboration can unlock even greater opportunities moving forward. The North East has an impressive track record of resilience and innovation, and together we can continue to build a brighter future.”
The economic growth opportunities for the region are vast. From the Dogger Bank Wind Farm in the North Sea, set to be the world’s largest offshore wind farm located off the North East coast, to the AI datacentre at Blyth, the North East has positioned itself at the forefront of the new industries that will underpin the Ƶ’s future economic strength.
These projects not only create jobs in the construction industry but also stimulate growth in the wider supply chain, from manufacturing to support services.
Other sectors, too, are flourishing. For instance, The Crown Works Studio in Sunderland is set to become one of the biggest film studios in Europe, while The Helix in Newcastle, which brings together academia, the public sector, and businesses, showcases the region’s diverse strengths and its ability to attract global investment.
Damien Charlton, a Partner at Ward Hadaway who leads the North East Fastest 50 Awards, explains: “The North East has traditionally been a hotbed of construction and this strength continues to position us well for future growth, even as the industry undergoes change and challenges.”
One such change that the construction sector is adapting to is increased demand for sustainable and green infrastructure.
“Whether it’s in building homes, commercial properties or supporting renewable energy projects, ‘green’ building is the vehicle driving us towards sustainable development. Beyond renewable energy, sectors such as life sciences, digital technology and media are thriving which also requires a significant investment in building and construction. These industries, alongside traditional sectors, are driving the North East towards a stronger and better future.
“As we come together to celebrate the North East Fastest 50 growing companies this year, we also acknowledge the need for ongoing investment across both established and emerging sectors. This will ensure the region is able to play a vital role in supporting the Ƶ’s economic growth. With a strong foundation in construction, combined with collaboration across industries and a forward-thinking approach, the North East is well-equipped to embrace future opportunities and create lasting prosperity for the businesses and communities that call it home.”
Look out for the full 2024 Ward Hadaway North East Fastest 50 list that will be published in The Journal next week, highlighting the region’s most dynamic and successful businesses.
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Nick Gholkar, Executive Partner for the Newcastle office of Ward Hadaway, Real Estate Development Partner and Deputy Chair of Developing Consensus, said: "What sets the North East apart is the scale of opportunities, not just in traditional construction but also in the shift toward sustainable development. From infrastructure projects to housing, we are seeing growing demand for green initiatives that align with the region’s commitment to a low-carbon future.
"This demand is creating new avenues for growth, particularly as we focus on renewable energy infrastructure, such as the development of offshore wind farms and data storage facilities.
"The North East’s ability to continue leading the way in construction depends on our capacity to adapt. By investing in new technologies and forging strong public-private partnerships, we can ensure that construction remains a cornerstone of regional growth, driving prosperity for generations to come.”
Ronnie Graham, Partner, Ryder Architecture, said:“ The construction and built environment sectors are a catalyst for innovation and sustainable growth across the North East. By creating jobs, supporting local supply chains and fostering new technologies, this sector is playing a crucial role in driving both economic and environmental sustainability.
"Key projects in the region are leading the way in decarbonisation, particularly through the development of offshore infrastructure, advanced manufacturing and cutting-edge research and development.
"Initiatives like PlanBEE, led by Ryder in collaboration with Gateshead College and construction and engineering industry leaders, are vital in preparing a skilled workforce ready to meet the demands of green building technologies.
"The North East is uniquely positioned to capitalise on these opportunities, ensuring long-term prosperity for businesses and communities alike.”
Jen Hartley, Director of Invest Newcastle at NewcastleGateshead Initiative (NGI) and Head of Economic Development at Newcastle City Council, said:“ The North East has always been forward-thinking when it comes to construction, but we’re now entering a phase where it's not just about building infrastructure - it’s about building smart. The way we approach construction today is changing rapidly to meet the demands of a green economy, and this transformation is already creating huge opportunities for the region.
"Collaboration will be key as it always has been. Wherever you see cranes on our skyline or spades in the ground, those projects represent years of trust and cooperation aimed at driving sustainable and inclusive growth across the region.
"The public and private sectors must work hand in hand to ensure we’re not just building for today but laying the groundwork for the future.
"I’m confident we can achieve this - time and again, the North East has demonstrated that when we work together, we can tackle any challenge and come out stronger.”
