Against the background of a very competitive market place for its services, and to build on the ship repair, fabrication and conversion business, the Group say they recognise the potential opportunities and challenges in the offshore Oil and Gas sector, as well as for Renewable and Civil Nuclear fabrication work. To meet these requirements the company is bringing the activities of the two North East yards, on the Tyne and Tees, into a single business unit focussing on the benefit of the synergies that exist between them, led by Chris McManus who has been appointed as Managing Director North East business. The intent is to create the necessary focus, flexibility and competitive cost base to meet both existing and emerging market requirements.