A NORTH-EAST consulting engineering practice is to expand its operations into the North-West.

Patrick Parsons has appointed Chris Gooch-Butler as business development director to lead the expansion.

Originally from Chester, Mr Gooch-Butler has spent the majority of his career in the North-West, working with multi-national engineering firms Gifford and Mouchel Parkman. He spearheaded expansion of the firms into countries such as Dubai, Pakistan and East Africa.

Peter Stienlet, managing director of Patrick Parsons, said: “Business growth has been a tough objective to meet in our industry over the past few years. But, by branching out into new markets and constantly striving to offer more than traditional engineering services, we have managed to make good progress.

“Chris’s local knowledge and contacts in the North- West and further afield put him in a prime position to lead the expansion out of our home region.”

Mr Gooch-Butler said: “The recession has hit the engineering industry hard and while most companies are losing revenue or downsizing, Patrick Parsons is growing, and I can see why. It has dealt with the recession head on.

“The team has shown initiative and innovation, stretching its expertise to a range of projects and winning new work as a result.”

Established in 1964, Newcastle-based Patrick Parsons has worked on heritage schemes including Durham Cathedral and projects including the Tees Barrage white water course.

Last year, the company secured several new contracts resulting in the appointment of six staff members.