The Hub in Consett is the official name of the building that used to be known as ‘The Braes’. Inside it houses MINT business club which offers networking and business training on a weekly basis.

The founder of the organisation, Nicola Jayne Little, has for 10 years been looking for a space to follow her dream. Over the last fourteen years she has been self employed, helping small business owners by providing consultancy network training throughout the north east. She is also an ex teacher skilled in supporting SEN students.

When she bought the building in 2022, it had been disused for over 2 years and it was her task to convert it into the Community space she imagined having.

Nicola who has lived in Consett for 8 years has always had plans to invest in the area. So after purchasing ‘The Braes’ she and her husband Mike, along with family, members and helpers transformed the space with lots of paint, hard work and furnishings.

The Hub’s mission is to promote other businesses, and on the ground floor there is the Hub Market Place, which thanks to Donna Tunney – the marketing manager appointed in June this year- is thriving.

Initially it was going to be a showcase for probably 20 to 30 Mint Members but under the watchful eye of Donna it now houses over 70 small businesses.

From Thursday 1st December The Hub will launch its late night opening, giving you the opportunity to shop for bespoke gifts crafted by local artists. The Hub is open until 8pm on Thursdays and Fridays up until Christmas. It’s normal opening hours are Tuesday till Saturday 10 – 3.

Also on the ground floor is a co- working space for business and community activities. Free coffee is provided now, as plans for serving food in a cafe are in motion with the addition of a fully functional kitchen next year.

The managed offices upstairs house Nicola’s other companies and there is office space to rent. At present Leona’s Mindful Makers meet fortnightly on a Thursday.

Nicola has lots in mind for the future, and is currently applying for funding to help with the refurbishment of the windows and outside of the building, while expanding the services she provides inside. She has in an application for a warm hub space and is intent on providing a safe environment for all to enjoy, which is totally inclusive.

She is also passionate about providing for and helping people with additional needs and works with Durham Enable.

There is so much more to find out about this amazing community space right on our doorstep, here in Consett. To do that follow the links below and you will be pleasantly surprised.

thehubconsett.co.uk
mintbusinessclub.co.uk

donna@thehubconsett.co.uk
The HUB Consett
1 Sherburn Terrace
Consett
DH8 6ND