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THE first phase of a major redevelopment of Newcastle’s quayside which could see the creation of 200 jobs has been completed.

DUCO which is based at Walker Riverside, Newcastle, has built a new research and development facility for its offshore operations. DUCO specialises in engineering and manufacturing of subsea cables and umbilicals to link offshore platforms to oil and gas wells.   The firm’s parent company Technip has approved DUCO’s plans for a substantial redevelopment of the area.

The first phase is the recently completed 14,500 square foot state-of-the-art research and development (R&D) facility for DUCO. This will provide for ancillary office space, a new laboratory and a dedicated site for the full range of umbilical test equipment. This will also enable the firm to free up space in its existing premises, as well as expanding onto new land along the river Tyne. This will provide space to increase production, by adding the world's leading manufacturing assets for umbilical systems and cables.

Will McKay, partner at leading commercial law firm Muckle LLP, acted on behalf of DUCO in preparing the documentation for the new R&D building. He said: “We have worked with DUCO for more than 20 years so we have a long standing relationship with the team there. In this development we advised on construction and property aspects.

 “It is part of a much bigger scheme that DUCO and global parent company, Technip, has for the quayside in Newcastle, which is currently in the planning process. If it goes ahead it could be completed as early as the second half of 2013 and will result in increased employment and a new landmark building on the Tyne.

“DUCO is expanding as it develops new technologies for the growing offshore energy sector. The research and development facility was approved by Technip, in the face of competition internationally. As a global concern Technip was also considering other sites including one in Malaysia, so the fact they chose the Tyne is a vote of confidence in the North East as a major player in the energy sector. It is extremely good news for the Tyne.

Jean-Louis Rostaing, managing director of DUCO, said: “The development of Walker Quay is an integral part of our strategic plans for the future. The new facility means we can achieve our growth plans, support our clients around the world and lead the industry in the development of new technologies. Having the right legal advice from Will and the team at Muckle LLP was important in making sure the construction and associated property aspects of this was completed efficiently and without any delays, whilst also considering the wider energy sector issues. Our teams have worked really well together.”

For more information about Muckle LLP visit www.muckle-llp.com