And after all the month's of speculation here we have the answer from today's Journal
Regards
Graham
What is the 2,000-tonne structure dominating the skyline in Blyth?
Stocksfield firm Royal IHC has developed the massive pipe-laying machinery currently being tested at the Port of Blyth
A 2,000-tonne structure designed in the North East for the growing offshore sector is changing the skyline of a Northumberland town .
Stocksfield-based Royal IHC has designed the 80-metre J-Lay system - so called because of its shape - which will be used to lay pipes for the oil and gas sector.
After testing at the Port of Blyth , where it is currently berthed, it will be used to install pipelines with the equivalent mass of 2,000 cars whilst also dealing with the demanding environmental challenges faced at sea.
Paul Hardisty, managing director of Royal IHC Ltd, said: “The equipment that we are bringing to market is some of the best in field, and in many cases is setting the benchmark for the industry.
“Fundamentally, this success comes down to the talent and commitment of our people and the company creating the environment where they can make our clients requirements a reality.
“Many of our employees are engaged with projects from early concept stage through design, build, installation, commissioning through to sea trails alongside our clients, ensuring a seamless development process.
“We currently have a sizable backlog of work that will keep our teams occupied for some years ahead and are quietly confident of securing new exciting orders which means we need to expand our permanent workforce, not just in engineering, which is core to what we do, but many others areas such as project management, finance, supply chain, HSEQ (health, safety, environment and quality).
“Our head offices in Stocksfield are set in some spectacular scenery, and are being upgraded to create a modern and professional environment that is a desirable place to work. In doing so we are working with our landlords and architect to upgrade the working environment for today, tomorrow and the future.