Wallsend-based Soil Machine Dynamics (SMD) is relocating its servicing operations to the Port of Tyne’s Tyne Dock Estate in South Shields (
www.smd.co.uk).
The company is already a global leader in the manufacture of remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), which are deployed underwater in the global oil and gas, telecommunications and renewables industries.
SMD’s head office and heavy production facility will remain in Wallsend, and the company will continue to manufacture ROVs at the Tyne Tunnel Trading Estate in North Shields.
Its servicing, maintenance and training operations will transfer to the new facility at the Port of Tyne. The firm will occupy a 23,000ft
2 unit at Tyne Dock, where it will carry out repairs and upgrades, and it will offer training via ‘state of the art’ simulation technology designed to mimic sea conditions.
Graham Puntis, managing director (services), said: “As well as focusing on new builds, SMD Services enables us to increase our presence in the after-market by helping customers to get the most out of their assets, so they can remain where they should be — at sea — for as long as possible.
“The move to the Port of Tyne is about a number of factors, including location. We need good access for offshore vessels bringing equipment directly to us for repair, maintenance or overhaul.”