BOSSES at a £6.6m business hub say they have made a significant coup after securing a new tenant.

Northstar Ventures is moving into Business Central Darlington.

The firm invests in ambitious North-East small and medium-sized companies, and says the switch to Darlington will help it target the south of the region.

Ian Richards, director, said: “We are delighted to announce the opening of our office.

“Our team has been expanding over the past couple of years, so now seemed the perfect time.”

Michelle Cooper, investment manager, will lead its Darlington office alongside Richard Charnley.

Vanessa Wood, Business Central centre manager, added: “Northstar was one of the first companies to show interest and we are looking forward to welcoming the team.”

The centre, due to open later this month, will offer space for up to 60 firms, and officials previously revealed plans to support the creation of at least 25 new businesses and more than 300 jobs over a 15-year period.

The project is spearheaded by North-East Business Innovation Centre and will focus on nurturing established and start-up firms, with specific focus on the digital, biologics and advanced manufacturing sectors.

The project has been backed with funding from the European Regional Development Fund and the Homes and Communities Agency.

Bosses also worked with Darlington Borough Council on the development, which is in the town’s Central Park Enterprise Zone, off Yarm Road.