THE North-East needs to secure its fair share of infrastructure investment if it is to realise its full potential as one of the major economic regions of the UK.

That was the key message from one of the UK’s top engineers who yesterday helped launch a national campaign for the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE).

During his visit to the region, ICE President, Professor David Balmforth met with the team behind the reconstruction of Quay 1, at Teesport, which increases the Port’s capacity to handle larger vessels. Phase one of PD Port's project is on target for completion by McLaughlin and Harvey later this month.

The visit also included the unveiling of the ‘This Is Civil Engineering’ banners, which are being positioned on infrastructure project sites across the country to raise public awareness of the industry.

The initiative forms part of ICE’s wider Commit to Infrastructure General Election campaign, and the leading engineering body is hoping it will serve as a reminder that long term investment in infrastructure improves quality of life for the public, regenerates communities and creates jobs.

Prof Balmforth said: “Teesport is fantastic example of the value that first class infrastructure brings to this region."

The President’s two-day trip to the North-East culminated with the ICE North East Annual Dinner at the Gosforth Marriott Hotel last night. During the dinner, Professor Balmforth presented the ICE’s Robert Stephenson Awards 2015.