Engineer shines light on laser innovation

A North East engineering business is introducing cutting-edge laser technology to help restore historic buildings, industrial equipment and valuable assets.

Sunderland-based Instant Surface Recovery (ISR Laser), founded by engineer Terence (Terry) South, is using specialist laser cleaning systems to tackle projects ranging from heritage conservation and industrial maintenance to classic car restoration and residential property improvements.

Terry’s career has spanned more than four decades and taken him from military service during the Falklands conflict to major engineering projects across China, Russia and Mongolia. 

During more than 20 years working in China, where he became fluent in Mandarin, he discovered laser cleaning technology and recognised its potential for the UK market.

After returning to the North East, he established ISR Laser and invested in equipment that removes rust, paint, oil, graffiti and other contaminants using concentrated light rather than chemicals, sandblasting or water-intensive methods.

Terry said: “Before it was even being talked about in the UK, I could see how lasers were transforming engineering overseas. 

“They could clean metal, remove rust, reveal cracks and prepare surfaces without damaging them and without using chemicals or abrasive materials.

“I knew it was technology that had huge potential.”

The technology has already been used on a range of projects, including restoring staircases at Bamburgh Castle, removing graffiti from historic brickwork in Newcastle, preserving classic vehicles and helping engineers inspect critical machinery. 

It has also delivered savings for homeowners, with one customer avoiding an estimated £11,000 driveway replacement after the surface was successfully restored.

The environmentally friendly process produces minimal waste while protecting the original material beneath, making it suitable for both delicate heritage work and demanding industrial applications.

As awareness of laser cleaning continues to grow, Terry believes the technology has the potential to transform maintenance and restoration across multiple sectors while reinforcing the North East’s reputation for engineering innovation.

He added: “Many businesses simply don't know these solutions exist. 

“Other countries have been using this technology for years. 

“Once people see what it can do, they immediately understand the benefits. 

“It saves time, protects valuable assets and is much better for the environment.

Terry added: “The North East has always been built on engineering excellence. 

“I’m still buzzing about what can be achieved. 

“We need to embrace new technologies, invest in skills and inspire the next generation to keep pushing forward.”

Want your business, product or service to be seen regionally and nationally? Bdaily helps you get your story in front of the right audience, every day. Find out how Bdaily can help →

Join more than 55,000 subscribers by signing up to our daily bulletin each morning here.