A BUILDING firm has made a senior appointment to propel its expansion into the North-East.

Wates Construction says Steven Bell will work as its construction manager across the region.

The company says the move will bolster its standing in the North-East, as it targets contracts across commercial, manufacturing and public sectors in Newcastle, Sunderland, Durham and Teesside.

Mr Bell, who is a Sunderland AFC fan, joins from the Bowmer and Kirkland Group and will oversee the delivery of projects.

Wates’ expansion comes after the group agreed a deal to take over parts of the York-based Shepherd Group, including Shepherd’s Darlington engineering division, which has led construction of Hitachi Rail Europe's £82m train building factory in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham.

Mr Bell said: “I’m very pleased to be joining at such an exciting and progressive time.

“I bring with me a wealth of knowledge in delivering projects across the North-East and look forward to using my know-how to further support Wates’ growth.”

Paul Dodsworth, business unit director for Wates Construction North-East and Yorkshire, added: “As we expand into the North-East, it’s crucial we strengthen our senior team.

“Before joining Wates this year, I worked with Steven for more than 14 years, so I have no doubts about his extensive expertise.”