Delivering a long-term evaluation of regeneration in Blyth

Wavehill are delivering a seven-year evaluation of regeneration activity in Blyth which includes a mix of regeneration initiatives led by Northumberland County Council, totalling £95 million. The project established a clear structure for measuring change across economic, social and environmental priorities and will provide interim and final evaluations in 2028 and 2030 to determine longer term impacts.

The research began with a comprehensive Theory of Change across four dimensions (business, vibrancy, transport and community inclusivity) and used this to form a monitoring and evaluation framework. A set of indicators were identified as well as methodologies for testing the programme during and after delivery. The framework also incorporated comparator towns to track relative change over time.

A detailed baseline position was also captured in this early phase to enable later comparisons and track change. This included monitoring of defined indicators such as footfall, business activity and employment, with surveys of residents, young people and businesses, stakeholder consultations across delivery partners and local organisations and analysis of economic and social data. This research will be updated in subsequent phases to help inform the impact narrative.

Monitoring tools and guidance documents have been produced for Northumberland County Council and the specific projects to bring together insights as the programme progresses. To minimise additional resource burden these monitoring requirements build on the existing funder requirements and draw information together centrally to support governance oversight.