Project update: Back Bellingham Business

More confident, connected a resilient business for Bellingham

The Back Bellingham Business pilot has delivered good progress in building a more confident, connected and resilient rural business community in the North Tyne and Redesdale area of Northumberland.

Through co-designed activity with traders and residents, the Rural Design Centre has helped revitalise local enterprise networks, boost seasonal trading and generate consistently strong business engagement across the village and surrounding areas.

The Summer Networking event, held at the Riverdale Hall Hotel

Forming a new Trade and Tourism Association

A major achievement has been the community’s decision to form a new Trade and Tourism Association, creating a long-term structure to champion local enterprise beyond the life of the project.

This outcome demonstrates genuine ownership and shows how locally driven design can unlock energy and ambition in rural economies.

Wider social value

The pilot has also delivered wider social value. Strengthened networks have supported improved community cohesion, and engagement through the revived North Tyne Business Forum has even contributed to increased recruitment of retained firefighters, enhancing local emergency resilience.

Plans for the future

Research undertaken through the project is now shaping the next phase of development, including plans for place-based branding and a new community website and directory.

Overall, the project highlights how targeted, community-led design can achieve meaningful and lasting impact in rural places.