Big opportunities here to seize says port boss

A LEADING business figure says the North East is entering a key period to secure growth in the regional economy.

- GRAEME WHITFIELD Journal editor [e-mail]

Port of Tyne CEO Matt Beeton was speaking as the port reported a big rise in revenues thanks in part to work in the renewable energy sector.

The port has hosted the operations base for the massive Dogger Bank wind farm for the last two years and there are hopes that it will attract other jobs linked to the offshore energy sector in the North Sea.

Plans were recently announced for a £923m factory on the port's South Shields site that could create hundreds of jobs.

Bidding for the next round of offshore wind farms is set to open next month with hopes that the renewable energy sector will benefit from a big increase in the Government's use of offshore wind power.

The North East has made renewable energy a key target for economic growth.

Speaking at the port's annual Connect event, where its 2024 results were unveiled, Mr Beeton said: "The last year has seen the North East come together as one region.

"That allows us to go to huge developers and talk about the region and make a bid regionally rather than just as a port. For the first time in a long time we're in a space where we're able to do that.