Port of Blyth to grow offshore energy support base with Royal IHC deal

Offshore engineering firm Royal IHC is preparing for a period of expansion at Port of Blyth in Northumberland.

The port today (September 13) announced an agreement with the company that will see it sign a long-term commitment to Blyth’s offshore energy support base.

Royal IHC is securing new contracts and working to create new jobs at the port, which is enabling the growth key improvements to Royal IHC’s facility at its South Harbour terminal.

The works will include the construction of a new office complex to house over 60 staff, expansion of Royal IHC’s workshop space and improved parking facilities for as many as 250 vehicles.

Port of Blyth chief exec Martin Lawlor said: “We’re thrilled to have concluded these negotiations and to come to an agreement with a high-profile market leader like Royal IHC.

“They have been a key component in the growth of the offshore energy support base at Port of Blyth since they arrived and their commitment highlights the exciting times that clearly lie ahead for the port, with infrastructure improvements ongoing and other major opportunities being pursued.”

Paul Hardisty, managing director at Royal IHC, commented: “Since transferring our main UK construction facility to the Port of Blyth we have worked closely on developing a strong mutually beneficial partnership.

“This long-term agreement confirms Royal IHC’s confidence in Port of Blyth as the right location to deliver our increasingly innovative products into growing markets.”

He continued: “Royal IHC recently delivered a large pipelay system out of its Port of Blyth facility and is currently completing several subsea systems.

“Client and market confidence in the company has led to recent contract awards for a further two pipelay systems to be constructed at the Port of Blyth facility during 2019.”