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The managing director of Newcastle-headquartered developer Modo Bloc has outlined plans to expand and "cement" its North East operations, through partnerships and external investment.
The developer is currently working on a number of schemes across the region, including a project to redevelop the former Causeway Hotel site in Gateshead into nine self-serviced apartments, as well as a £25m brownfield redevelopment scheme in Ouseburn.
Modo Bloc has also submitted plans for a £2.1m development in Sunderland which, once complete, will comprise a 4,000 sq ft Tesco and 1,200 sq ft Cooplands.
George Jenkins told Insider that 2023 has started "extremely well" for the company, which should break ground on a further six sites this year.
He said: "We have a very diverse looking pipeline which includes commercial roadside developments with blue-chip tenants such as Starbucks and Tesco."
One of Jenkins favorite schemes includes The Ropes townhouse project in Ouseburn, due for completion in July, that is set to be a "great show piece".
"It is the first time I have used an external contractor and so far, Tyneside Developments has been a joy to work with", added Jenkins.
He said: "It also demonstrates our business model working effectively forward, which will be the key for expansion."
In terms of growth, the developer is focused on "further cementing a foothold in the North East", although Jenkins explained that plans to establish offices in the Midlands and Southern England are on the agenda in the longer term.
Another way Modo Bloc aims to develop is through external investment, said Jenkins, adding: "I intend to partner with high-net worth individuals, family offices or pension funds.
"I'm looking at implementing an investor portal on my website to manage these investments and hopefully open the opportunities up to smaller investors with a crown funding type system."
