Newcastle was designated as one of six UK Science Cities in 2005 in recognition of the world-class research being undertaken by its universities and the potential of its science industry base.

Our ambition is three-fold:

• To ensure that Newcastle is synonymous across the world with excellence in three scientific fields; ageing & health at Newcastle Universities Institute for Ageing & Health; stem cell & regenerative medicine at The International Centre for Life; and in sustainability, which will be the focus of Science Central, on the site of the former Newcastle Brewery in the heart of the city centre.
• To create prosperity for the city and wider region by supporting the creation of new businesses and jobs and assisting new businesses to innovate and grow.
• To ensure that the local population can become part of the city's continued scientific achievement.

This vision was established through a strong partnership between Newcastle University, Newcastle City Council, One North East and Newcastle Science Company Limited - the company tasked with realising the Newcastle Science City vision on behalf of the partnership.

In 2011, following the announcement of the closure of One North East, Newcastle City Council and Newcastle University reinforced their committment to the partnership including £1.5m funding for the next 3-years.

Thanks to the support of people and businesses from across the region, together the partnership is already helping to transform the science and innovation landscape of Newcastle and North East England.