Issue 29 | Page 123

HARTLEPOOL NEWS

THE NEW HIGHLIGHT OF THE TOWN CENTRE

Hartlepool Council has revealed an artist ’ s impression of Highlight , the town ’ s new multi-million-pound leisure facility on the waterfront .

The computer-generated image shows the stylish design proposed for the building . Designed by GT3 Architects , Highlight ’ s strong linear lines are inspired by the railway tracks that ran from local timber and coal yards into the former dockland site during the 19th and early 20th centuries .
The building will grow in height from west to east , with views of the wider waterfront site , marina and sea .
Paul Reed , of GT3 Architects , said : “ We ’ ve worked closely with the council and stakeholders to not only come up with an eye-catching and unique building that makes the most of its waterfront location , but to also develop a bespoke , flexible facility mix which will meet the needs of a variety of
different user groups .”
The mix of facilities within the new leisure centre will include a 25m eight-lane main pool , a 25m four-lane learner pool with movable floor , a leisure pool including race slide and water play features , spectator seating , a 100-station gym , two interconnected fitness studios , an indoor cycling / spinning studio , active and soft play areas , party room , café , NHS consultation suite and external terraces .
This reflects the desire for Highlight to be a must-visit destination and a community venue offering a range of opportunities and activities .
The building will also be surrounded by informal outdoor event and activity spaces to support walking , cycling , running , outdoor fitness , with connections for water sports , utilising Hartlepool Marina .
Telecoms firm expands into Marina building
A telecommunications expert is going from strength to strength after moving his technology company into Hartlepool Marina ’ s Tranquility House .
Eden Digital Systems was created shortly after Covid-19 started spreading across the UK . As part of the first phase of expansion , Martin has hired two partner success managers and a customer relations manager .
That team is focused on growing a business that supplies telecom systems , IT support , print management , mobile phone business contracts , customer relationship management tools , interactive boards , email management and security to its partners .
Eden Digital Systems also provides a network-as-a-service and anti-virus and anti-spam software .
Historic manufacturer has tools to grow
One of the region ’ s longest-standing familyowned manufacturers is celebrating its 165th anniversary by investing in state-of-the-art machinery .
Hartlepool ’ s JJ Hardy & Sons was founded in 1856 before being bought out by Alderman TH Pailor , grandfather of the company ’ s current owner and MD , Andrew Pailor .
Set up to support local traders and seafarers , the company transitioned from brass founders and finishers to expert CNC machinists supplying precision components and parts across the UK .
With support from the University of Sunderland ’ s Sustainable Advanced Manufacturing Project , the company has invested in a cutting-edge Mazak QTE-200 SG CNC turning machine and an Ultimaker S5 3D printer .
APPRENTICE DRIVE FOR BRAKE PAD MANUFACTURER
Automotive manufacturer TMD Friction has announced plans to recruit more apprentices .
The company currently employs 18 apprentices in a range of disciplines . As part of its commitment to investing in the next generation , TMD has confirmed it will be looking to attract at least five new apprentices this year .
TMD Friction is a global manufacturer of brake pads , producing pads for 95 per cent of the models for Europe ’ s aftermarket , including emergency services vehicles and small trucks and vans .
The company has been making parts for the passenger car aftermarket since 1974 and now employs 508 people at its Hartlepool factory .
CARERS TO ENJOY BREAKS AFTER GENEROUS DONATION
Up to 50 young carers who spend much of their spare time looking after parents , family members or siblings , are to be treated to specially-arranged respite breaks after a generous donation .
Staff from Hartlepool Carers , which supports more than 300 local children and teenagers aged from five to 17 , are now planning to take groups of four young carers away each weekend to Northumberland .
The breaks are being funded by a £ 9,000 donation from the Bernicia Foundation , a £ 1m charitable foundation set up by North-East housing association , Bernicia , to support people , projects and communities across the region .
The voice of business in the Tees region | 123