NETPARK is being developed on the former Winterton Hospital site in the Borough of Sedgefield as a regional technology park for knowledge-based industries, satellite research and development facilities of major international organisations, and as a dynamic incubator/start-up environment for entrepreneurs and regional unversity graduates.

It will provide a working environment of the highest quality and set new standards in technology park design.

KEY FACTS

* Phase I totals 33 acres with potential for large-scale expansion to the north. All the land is owned by the public sector

* Phase I has outline planning permission for users wanting high-tech facilities or offices

* Individual plots are available for self-build projects of one to four acres

* Plots will initially be available as leasehold only, with the option to purchase the freehold at a later date

* On-site works, including a new spine road, drainage and utility services are in progress

* Gas, water and telecommunications services will be provided

* ICT provision: Discussions are ongoing with major telecom providers about the provision of a broad band Internet service

* The site is located in a tier two assisted area, accessing DTI assistance in the North-East, as well as attractive local support packages

* Strong academic and research links with the University of Durham and the region's four other universities. The park is situated midway between the University of Durham City campus and its campus at Stockton

* NetPark enjoys good road communications with direct access from the A177. The main A1 trunk road is only a few minutes drive away. It also has links to Teesside and Newcastle airports.

* The site occupies a pleasant rural location. Comprehensive landscaping will make the best use of this position.

* 200 high quality houses are being built on the southern edge of the park by Miller Homes. The first homes are already available

* The park is adjacent to the town of Sedgefield. Other local amenities include the Hardwick Hall Hotel, a golf course, Sedgefield Racecourse and a range of local shops and pubs.

* The population within five miles of the park is 43,800. Within ten miles it is 482,000 and within 20 miles there are 1.5 million people.