Teesworks: Rising Strong, 5 Years On
Established in 2020 on the former 4,500-acre Redcar Steelworks site, Teesworks has undergone a significant transformation to become the UK’s largest freeport and a focal point for clean energy, advanced manufacturing and innovation.
Once symbolic of industrial decline following the steelworks’ closure in 2015, the site has since secured more than £2 billion in investment and is now seen as a driver of regeneration across the Tees Valley. Through the Teesworks Skills Academy and the Teesworks Benevolent Foundation, the organisation has also committed to upskilling local talent and supporting individuals and community groups in need.
The Brief
To commemorate five years of operations, Teesworks sought to host a special event that would bring together local partners, stakeholders and supporters. The aim was to celebrate the site’s achievements to date, reflect on its journey and shine a spotlight on the positive impact Teesworks Benevolent Foundation has made across the region.
Planning & Creative
The Pavilion at Kirkleatham Walled Gardens was selected as the venue and Cool Blue developed a comprehensive project plan and timeline to manage all roles, responsibilities and budgets, supported by regular progress meetings with Teesworks representatives.
Creatively, Cool Blue produced a strong visual identity for the event entitled Rising Strong, 5 Years On, which was applied across all collateral including invitations, menus, banners, programmes, table plans, step-and-repeat boards and screen graphics. This ensured a cohesive and professional look and feel throughout the evening.
Creating Stand-Out Moments
To highlight the work of the Teesworks Benevolent Foundation without turning the event into a fundraising occasion, a carefully curated live auction was introduced. Guests were invited to bid on five packages supporting local causes, such as providing therapeutic weekends for families in crisis or funding youth provision at community centres.
To celebrate growing local talent, a dedicated segment was given to the Teesworks Skills Academy, featuring a Q&A hosted by Freeport Skills & Workforce Development Manager Neil Young with apprentices and scholars from key partners including Balfour Beatty, SeAH Wind and NZT.
Delivery & Outputs
Cool Blue managed all logistics, from coordinating suppliers and entertainment to directing AV requirements and ensuring brand consistency across every element. When the original compere withdrew a week before the event, the team secured TV presenter Kirsten O’Brien at short notice.
The event welcomed over 300 guests, raised nearly £50,000 for local charities and community projects, and received overwhelmingly positive feedback from Teesworks and stakeholders across the board.
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