A CHEMICAL research and development firm is doubling its laboratory space just months after moving into a site.

High Force Research is expanding at the Wilton Centre, near Redcar.

Bosses say they need the room to house more staff and carry out chemical development projects.

The business already has a base in Bowburn, near Durham City.

However, Dr Neil Sim, research leader at the Wilton Centre, said its successes mean the time is right for further expansion.

He said: “One of the reasons we decided on the Wilton Centre was because we knew there was potential to expand, which is really important as Bowburn is now full.

“Also, as we are in the process of recruiting more chemists to join our existing team at Wilton, it was the ideal time to look at expanding further.

“The new laboratory space has proved to be an ideal setting.

“There are more than 60 other companies here at Wilton and we’re already finding there are lots of possibilities with research-orientated businesses in the area too.”

Steve Duffield, Wilton Centre site director, added: “We’re thrilled High Force Research is expanding its operations.

“The company is a valuable member of our business community and it’s great that it is continuing to grow its highly-skilled team in Teesside.”

Founded in 1988, High Force is an independent company known for supporting medical and scientific research.

Originally based at the Mountjoy Research Centre, on the Durham University campus, it moved to Bowburn in the mid-1990s.