A SUBSEA engineer expects to create jobs in a relocation aimed at strengthening its order book.

Soil Machine Dynamics (SMD) is shifting servicing operations to the Port of Tyne’s Tyne Dock estate, in South Shields, South Tyneside.

Bosses say the switch will put the division closer to offshore vessels needing equipment to be repaired and maintained, and provide scope to take an existing 50-strong team towards the 80 mark.

They added the firm, known for building subsea apparatus such as ploughs, trenchers and remotelyoperated vehicles for offshore telecoms, oil and gas and renewables operators, will occupy a 23,000sq ft unit.

Graham Puntis, SMD services’ managing director, said: “As well as focusing on new builds, SMD services enables us to increase our presence in the after-market.

“The move to the port 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 expansion capacity.”

Under the terms of the move, SMD’s head office and heavy production factory will remain in Wallsend, North Tyneside, with the company continuing to make remotelyoperated vehicles at the Tyne Tunnel Trading Estate, in North Shields.