UK outfit Soil Machine Dynamics (SMD) is relocating its servicing operations for remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) to the Port of Tyne in South Shields.
The company, which builds ROVs for offshore industries including renewables, will carry out repairs, upgrades and training at the new 2137-square metre facility at Tyne dock.
It will maintain a head office and heavy production facility in nearby Wallsend and continue to manufacture ROVs at the Tyne Tunnel trading estate in North Shields.
SMD managing director services Graham Puntis said: “The move to Port of Tyne is about a number of factors, including location.
“We need good access for offshore vessels bringing equipment directly to us for repair, maintenance or overhaul.
“As this aspect of our work continues to grow the move also provides us with the necessary expansion capacity.”
SMD currently employs 220 people, with 50 based at Port of Tyne. That figure is due to rise to 80 as operations expand.
IMAGE: SMD’s existing workshop at Wallsend (SMD)
