Newcastle-based Responsive Engineering (www.responsive-engineering.com) is launching a new division and is expanding into the Port of Blyth with a new satellite fabrication workshop to provide specialist services to the offshore energy sector.

The company operates in a wide range of markets including oil and gas, sub-sea, offshore renewables, nuclear, rail and defence.

Its new division — Rapid Manufacturing Services Ltd (RMS) — will focus on the mobilisation and demobilisation of offshore vessels.

In addition to its new quayside location, RMS will also have its own designated facilities at Responsive Engineering’s 33,300m² base in Newcastle.

Graeme Campbell, who will head up the new division, said: “The launch of Rapid Manufacturing Services is an exciting step. Our new base here in the Port of Blyth enables us to provide a faster and more-bespoke response to our customers’ needs, supported by the facilities and skilled workforce in our Armstrong Works in Newcastle.

"We can now offer an integrated supply-chain solution for large high-value sub-assemblies such as sub-sea wind-turbine jackets, as well as supporting the port operator’s tactical operational requirements.

“We also hope to develop closer strategic relationships with our customers already located here and greater collaboration with the increasing number of engineering companies at the port.

“We aim to quickly grow our order book and create new roles in a number of specialised areas.”

The opening of the new fabrication facility coincides with major investment in machinery at Responsive Engineering’s Newcastle facility.

Owned by parent company Reece Group, this is also home to group companies Pearson Engineering, a defence manufacturer, and Reece Innovation, a pioneer of new technologies.

The investment includes the latest robotic welding equipment and Mazak machinery, which will improve the firm’s service to customers — particularly in the energy, defence and rail markets.