articles

Manufacturing & Offshore

Heavy investment pays. Nepic, the North East’s process industry cluster, now represents more than 500 chemical, pharmaceutical, biotechnology and support firms across the North East. Together they represent the largest (25%) section of the region’s economy, contributing £10bn GDP yearly to the economy. They employ 34,000 people and, one way or another, support a further 280,000 jobs. more»

It's a fair wind now. Offshore group OGN, an engineering and fabrication contractor, is taking on about 1,000 workers to build a Ã�£150m North Sea oil platform for US based Apache Corporation. OGN, formerly SLP Production, acquired the mothballed Hadrian offshore yard at Wallsend. Soon the 75 acres will have burst into activity on the platform due for completion in July 2012. Work starts on January 4. more»

Taking a leaf out of Nissan. A new and exciting chapter in car building will ensure the North East maintains its global reputation for sound engineering. more»

This innovative North East. Just how much the North East region is achieving to advance the nation's low carbon economy has been spelled out to politicians by industrial leaders of the region. more»

Innovate, diversify, export. Defence spending is being slashed but great opportunities still exist for small firms to make capital, says Robin Fox. more»

Looking to the future. As his company celebrates 100 years in manufacturing, Geoff Ford has big plans for the future and hopes to change the public perception of engineers, as Emma Walker reports. more»

Diversity's the game. Oil and gas must stay in the energy frame though wind and nuclear gather pace, says George Rafferty. more»

Bidding for balance. More balanced growth from innovation, exports and investment in manufacturing can secure the North East's long term prosperity, says Tony Sarginson. more»

Full of energy. The North East holds the key to possession of the biggest power plant of its kind in Europe. Andrew Mill explains. more»