A NORTH-EAST mayor welcomed a 'significant' visit from central government as last night members of the Treasury were on Teesside.

Senior civil servants met with the Tees Valley Mayor and MPs to discuss the "opportunities" that lay ahead for the area, after it was last week announced a further £71m had been pledged for the clear up of the former SSI Steelworks site in Redcar.

Tees Valley Mayor Mr Houchen said: "This was a very significant visit – it was the first time the Treasury’s senior management board have visited the Tees Valley and goes to show just how much Whitehall decision-makers are taking notice of what is happening in our region."

The Northern Echo:

Jacob Young MP, Simon Clarke MP, Mr Houchen, Mr Sunak and Matt Vickers MP at the visit Picture: DAVE CHARNLEY

“I was able to showcase what our area does best, with senior Treasury officials visiting some of the world-leading businesses and organisations that are succeeding right here."

At the event, Redcar MP Jacob Young, Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland MP Simon Clarke and Stockton South MP Matt Vickers met with Treasury officials.

Mr Houchen added: "The visit also provided a great opportunity to highlight the huge opportunities that lie ahead for our area and how future Government investment could be targeted to capitalise on our strengths to boost the whole of the UK."

Mr Houchen discussed the impact of a £450m devolution deal, which funds the Tees Valley Combined Authority and its plans to 'boost skills and training.'

Chief Secretary to the Treasury and Richmondshire MP, Rishi Sunak said:“We’re committed to levelling up – investing billions in world-class infrastructure to break down the barriers that have held parts of our country back for too long.

"That’s why last week I announced £71m funding to transform the former Teesside steelworks into a global trading centre.

"But levelling up is about more than just investment, it’s about reaching out and understanding the unique challenges each region faces.

"Bringing the Treasury to Teesside marks a significant step in our bid to ensure that communities in every corner of the country benefit as we unleash Britain’s potential.”