Esh’s civil engineering division has commenced work on site at Port of Sunderland to deliver enabling works on the East Shore phase of Enterprise Zone infrastructure improvements — part of a multi-million-pound programme to make the port more attractive to potential investors.
Port of Sunderland – which was awarded an £8.2m investment by the North East LEP after areas of its estate were granted Enterprise Zone status in 2017 — has embarked on an ambitious programme of enabling engineering works to deliver major improvements to its East Shore nine-acre development site, to make it shovel ready for attracting inward investment.
The £8.2m investment is the latest in a programme of wider strategic investment across Sunderland to enable export-driven activities to take place and to build on the existing growth at Port of Sunderland.
Steve Conn, Divisional Director at Esh Civils, said: “The current climate has brought into sharp focus the importance of our ports and the maritime sector, and their role in rebuilding the economy in the months ahead. These enabling works will provide access to key development land and employment opportunities.
“We are pleased to continue our partnership with Sunderland City Council having previously delivered infrastructure works at the International Advanced Manufacturing Park (IAMP) and Enterprise Zone.“
The enabling works at East Shore adds to the several competitive tenders Esh has previously won to undertake work as part of the regeneration of the city. It also follows latest figures released by Esh, showcasing a £12.4m investment into Sunderland’s economy through responsible procurement of local suppliers and sub-contractors for projects delivered on behalf of Sunderland City Council – something which is paramount across all Esh Construction schemes.
Port of Sunderland is a real asset to the city. Historically, it was the economic heartbeat of Sunderland and with ongoing investment, it can once again play a pivotal role in the industrial strategy of this city. We are delighted with this latest round of investment and indeed to be working with Esh on it, having seen their shared commitment to community wealth building on the other projects they have supported us with.”
