AN architect behind plans for an £82m North-East train building factory has secured lucrative work in Asia.

Ryder Architecture is the preferred bidder on £200m Hong Kong police headquarters project.

Bosses hope the work, coupled with UK-based operations, will push turnover to more than £10m.

Ryder, which has offices in Newcastle, previously worked alongside Durham’s TGA Consulting Engineers to produce detailed plans of the Hitachi plant, in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, which includes a research and development department and rail test track.

It is also supporting the redevelopment of Newcastle Central Station, Sunderland car maker Nissan and a master plan for Hartlepool town centre, and has been appointed to design the £212m Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary.

Mark Thompson, managing partner, said: “This is a very exciting period, opening up new horizons overseas and consolidating important projects across the UK.

“We remain determined not to become complacent as we emerge from recession, but confidence is growing.

“With significant projects in diverse sectors and international success we are set to push turnover beyond £10m.”