Origin Tech Signs Major Newcastle Office Deal at St James Gate

A fast-growing North East technology company specialising in leak detection and pipe repair services has announced a major expansion move in Newcastle upon Tyne after signing a ten-year lease at 1 St James Gate.

Origin Tech, which previously operated from premises in Ouseburn, will relocate to the Grade A office development later this year as the business continues to scale operations across the UK water sector.

The Newcastle-based company has built a strong reputation for its advanced leak detection systems, sealing technologies, and water loss solutions, working with major UK water utilities at a time when pressure on infrastructure performance and water conservation continues to intensify.

The move represents a significant milestone for the business and reflects growing confidence within Newcastle’s commercial property market, where demand for premium office space remains strong among ambitious technology and engineering firms.

Origin Tech Expands Operations in Newcastle Upon Tyne.

Origin Tech said the decision to move to 1 St James Gate followed a detailed search for a larger workspace capable of supporting future expansion, staff collaboration, and ongoing innovation.

Located close to Newcastle city centre, St James Gate has become one of the region’s most sought-after office developments, attracting a growing number of professional services, technology, and engineering occupiers.

The company’s relocation comes during a period of rapid growth driven by increasing demand for water efficiency solutions and infrastructure support services across the UK.

Water companies continue to face mounting pressure to reduce leakage levels, improve network performance, and modernise ageing infrastructure. This has created new opportunities for specialist firms such as Origin Tech, whose technology is designed to detect hidden leaks and deliver effective pipe sealing solutions.

Phil Surtees, founder of Origin Tech, described the office move as an important step forward for the business and its long-term ambitions in Newcastle upon Tyne.

He said: “The move to St James Gate comes at an exciting time for the business. The success of our leakage detection and repair technology has meant that we have grown significantly in the past few years and we need a base that will accommodate our ambitions well into the future.

“As a proud North East start-up, this ten-year lease is a statement of our commitment to investing, growing, and supporting jobs in the region.”

Newcastle Continues to Attract Growing Technology Firms.

Origin Tech’s expansion is another positive sign for Newcastle’s growing reputation as a hub for technology and innovation businesses.

Over recent years, Newcastle upon Tyne has attracted increasing levels of investment from digital, engineering, and science-led companies looking to establish operations in the North East. Industry experts say the city’s combination of skilled talent, strong universities, improving infrastructure, and competitive operating costs continues to appeal to growing firms.

The move from Ouseburn to St James Gate also highlights the changing workspace requirements of scaling businesses. Many firms are now prioritising flexible office environments that support collaboration, employee wellbeing, sustainability, and long-term growth planning.

1 St James Gate has positioned itself as one of Newcastle’s leading Grade A office developments, offering modern workspace alongside strong environmental and ESG credentials.

Richard Harrison, senior asset manager at Praxis, said Origin Tech was exactly the type of occupier the building aims to attract.

He said: “This is exactly the type of occupier we target - a growing business with a clear long-term trajectory and desire to commit to our building long term.

“Origin Tech undertook a thorough search process, and their decision reflects the quality of the building and its position as one of Newcastle’s leading Grade A office offerings.”

Demand for Water Technology Services Continues to Rise.

The UK water industry is currently undergoing major transformation as providers attempt to tackle water loss, ageing infrastructure, and environmental targets.

Leakage reduction has become a key priority for utilities across the country, particularly as climate pressures and population growth place greater strain on existing systems.

Origin Tech has developed specialist satellite leak detection and pipe repair capabilities that allow water companies to identify and respond to hidden network issues more efficiently. The company’s growth reflects increasing investment in smart infrastructure technologies designed to improve water efficiency and reduce operational waste.

Industry analysts believe the market for water technology services is expected to continue expanding over the coming years as utilities seek more innovative and sustainable ways to manage infrastructure performance.

For Newcastle and the wider North East economy, the growth of specialist engineering businesses also represents an important source of highly skilled employment and regional investment.

St James Gate Strengthens Newcastle Business Appeal.

Commercial property experts involved in the transaction say the deal further strengthens the reputation of St James Gate as a destination for high-growth businesses in Newcastle upon Tyne.

Michael Downey of Parker Knights, which acted on behalf of Praxis, said Origin Tech would be a valuable addition to the building’s occupier community.

He said: “Origin Tech is a strong addition to the occupier mix at 1 St James Gate. The building continues to attract ambitious, growth-focused businesses that value quality space and strong ESG credentials.”

The continued demand for premium office space in Newcastle is being closely watched by the commercial property sector, particularly as businesses reassess workspace needs following changing working patterns across the UK.

While hybrid working remains common in many industries, companies are increasingly seeking offices that offer high-quality environments capable of supporting collaboration, innovation, and employee engagement.

Origin Tech is expected to officially take occupation of the building later this year, with Parker Knights and LSH acting as joint agents on behalf of Praxis.

The move is likely to be seen as another strong vote of confidence in Newcastle upon Tyne’s growing status as a centre for innovation, technology, and long-term business investment.

What do you think about Newcastle upon Tyne’s growing reputation as a hub for technology and engineering businesses? Share your thoughts in the comments below.