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.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here