Member Article

North East secures two renewables hubs

The North East has been awarded two new Centres for Offshore Renewable Engineering, as part of the Government’s infrastructure plan.

Two sites, on the River Tyne and the River Tees have been identified, and will be promoted as prime locations for offshore renewable engineering businesses.

Government will work with local authorities to provide support packages to encourage investment from firms.

Chief Executive of the NECC, James Ramsbotham, welcomed the news, commenting: “CORE status is a commitment from the Government to support the growth in offshore manufacturing in the North East.

“This recognition of the engineering skills and ambition we have in the region and enhanced status that a CORE will bring will help both the River Tyne and Tees stand out commercially.

“Hopefully further support will be available as both of the CORE areas overlap with the newly announced Enterprise Zones, which enjoy benefits such as capital allowances and business rates tax relief.”

The North East locations are two of five sites that have been identified nationally, including Humberside, Lowerstoft and Great Yarmouth, and Sheerness.

There was no mention of the CORE plans in Wednesday’s Autumn Statement, however the government hopes investment and pension funds will support the sector, as part of the wider infrastructure initiative.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Tom Keighley .