Planning consent marks new chapter for Prestwick Park

With the aim of supporting jobs-led growth and further investment in the local economy, Rural Solutions worked closely with the Wilson family, who own and manage Prestwick Park, to prepare and secure approval for the proposals. Our team also supported the original development of the business park in 2005, when former agricultural buildings were converted into high-quality office accommodation.

The approved scheme will deliver approximately 680sq.m of new office space, with the potential to support up to 80 jobs. It represents the first phase of a wider 2.5-hectare employment allocation identified in the Northumberland Local Plan, adopted in 2022, which provides a framework for the site's future expansion.

Sustainable design with a strong sense of place

The new building has been designed by Rural Solutions to complement the character of the existing business park, while introducing a contemporary architectural approach. Materials will include local stone, metal roofing and timber louvres, alongside photovoltaic panels, and air source heat pumps to support the building's sustainability credentials.

Glazing and carefully positioned timber louvres will provide solar shading while maximising natural light and views from within the offices. The proposals also incorporate additional landscaping and car parking.

The design builds on Prestwick Park's established identity, where reclaimed Northumbrian stone and materials reused from the original farm buildings helped create distinctive office accommodation within a rural setting.

Supporting business growth

Prestwick Park has been fully occupied for some time and continues to attract interest from businesses seeking high-quality workspace with excellent transport connections. Its location, close to Newcastle International Airport, the Metro network, Ponteland and Prestwick village, makes it an attractive base for businesses operating across regional, national, and international markets.

Securing planning permission will enable the Wilson family to progress plans for the next stage of the business park's development, with construction hoped to move forward during 2027. Further planning applications are anticipated in the coming years to deliver the wider employment allocation.

James Ellis, Director of Planning at Rural Solutions, said: “Securing planning permission is an important step towards realising the Wilson family's ambitions for Prestwick Park. The proposals build on the success of the existing business park, creating opportunities for new businesses and jobs while respecting the business park's distinctive built environment.

“Having supported the original development in 2005, it is particularly rewarding to be involved in the next chapter of Prestwick Park's growth. We look forward to seeing the project progress and contributing to further investment in the local economy.”

The approval demonstrates how carefully considered planning and design can help established employment sites evolve, creating opportunities for business growth while responding to local character and sustainability objectives.

Get in touch

Prestwick Park – from derelict farm buildings to a thriving business park, is an example of the effective nature of the Rural Solutions combined service (Consulting, Planning, Architecture and Landscape) and collaborative approach to rural diversification projects.

Wherever you are on your journey, we would be pleased to help you through the decision-making and development process. For an informal chat call us on 01756 797501 or email info@ruralsolutions.co.uk.