CONSTRUCTION and development firm Southdale is planning for growth and new jobs in its North-East business after moving into larger premises.

The firm, which is on target for a regional turnover of £30m in this financial year and to be active on at least 12 sites in the North-East, is aiming to expand its presence into the north of the region.

Southdale has agreed a lease on new offices in Parsons Court, on the Aycliffe Business Park, County Durham, which will allow it to grow from its current 30 employees to 50. The Gladman-owned office offers 2,500 sq ft over two floors and sit at the heart of an area of the estate which has been highlighted as one of the county’s growth hot spots.

The company specialises in constructing high quality, affordable new homes, as well as technically demanding public buildings, including extra care accommodation, medical facilities and community centres.

Southdale, which has its regional hub in Darlington, first moved into the North-East in 2010 and has conducted projects for a range of registered landlords across the region, largely across County Durham and the Tees Valley.

Craig Knowles, operations director for the North-East, said: “We have plans for sustainable growth in the North-East, and that includes a significant increase in staffing and a broadening of the geographical area in which we operate.

“These new offices will allow us to grow and give us a base which is very easily accessible for all parts of the region, and we are looking forward to being at the heart of a vibrant business park.”