On 14th February, we hosted our 13th Preferred Partners event, in what is now our 4th year, bringing together key industry leaders to discuss some of the current projects in and around the Teesworks site, the UK’s largest industrial zone, and its impact on our region. The event featured presentations from Lewis Hughes of MGL and James Grant of K2, who provided insights into the scale, opportunities, and challenges of the Teesworks development.
Teesworks: A Game Changer for Teesside
Teesworks is a 4,500-acre industrial redevelopment project that is set to reshape the Teesside economy. Since the closure of the steelworks in 2015, which resulted in the loss of 3,000 jobs, significant efforts have been made to regenerate the site. The establishment of the Tees Valley Combined Authority (TVCA) in 2017 was a crucial step in driving this transformation forward.
Currently, 70% of the people working at Teesworks live within a 40-mile radius, demonstrating its role in providing well-paid local employment. The project is expected to generate £79 million per year in additional business rates over the next 5-10 years, further reinforcing its economic importance.
Leading the Way to Net Zero
Teesworks plays a key role in the UK’s journey to Net Zero, hosting major renewable energy projects such as offshore wind, hydrogen production, and carbon capture. Some of the standout developments include:
- Steel River Quay, a crucial infrastructure project supporting industrial growth.
- Net Zero Teesside, the UK’s first decarbonised industrial cluster.
- MyGreen Teesside and H2Teesside, BP-led projects focused on hydrogen production.
- Willis Aviation’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel Plant, which aims to cut CO2 emissions by 85% and produce 20 million litres of sustainable aviation fuel annually.
- Teesworks Service Park, with planning applications submitted to Redcar & Cleveland Council.
MGL has been instrumental in preparing the site for investment, ensuring safe demolition and groundwork for future projects, including the SeAH Wind factory, which will contribute to the region’s sustainable future.
Key Discussion Points
Following the presentations, a Q&A session sparked discussions around some of the critical challenges and opportunities linked to Teesworks:
- Improving Infrastructure – Conversations centred on the need for enhancements to road networks, particularly the A66, as well as public transport links and wagon park facilities to support access to the site. This would also be of a benefit to the local residents of Teesside.
- Long-Term Construction Opportunities – With construction work expected to continue for at least the next decade, Joanne O’Brien (TVCA) highlighted the ongoing investment and job creation in the area.
- Developing Local Skills – While Teesworks is attracting a strong range of specialisms, it was agreed that more needs to be done to invest in local talent and upskill younger people to meet growing industry demands. This has the potential to be a valuable long-term opportunity for partners.
- Boosting Local Supply Chains – The discussion reinforced the importance of engaging with local businesses through frameworks such as NEPO, alongside initiatives like Tees Expertise that support regional suppliers, including our partner, The Just Williams Sales Academy.
- Future of Steel Production – There was debate around the challenges of reviving steel production in the UK and the need for government funding to unlock large-scale projects that could stimulate growth in the wider supply chain.
Summing up his first Preferred Partners event, Scott Lewthwaite of DVC Roofing said: “The passion among the Preferred Partners for supporting industry on Teesside and maintaining a strong local supply chain is evident. There’s a real commitment to ensuring Teesside businesses thrive, creating opportunities for local talent, and strengthening the regional economy. It’s great to see such dedication to collaboration and sustainable growth.”
What’s Next?
The next Preferred Partners event will take place on 2nd April 2025, during ‘Roary’s Big Week’ held by our charity partner the MFC Foundation, with more information on how we will play our part coming soon. This session, focusing on ESG, will provide another opportunity to assess challenges, share progress, and foster collaboration. Sponsorship is still available, so get in touch if you are interested in supporting: engineering@lynasengineers.com
Looking further ahead, Constructing Links, our annual industry exhibition, is set for Friday, 20th June 2025, offering a fantastic opportunity for businesses and schools to connect and inspire the next generation of construction professionals. The morning will focus on engaging young people with hands-on experiences and career insights, while the afternoon will feature panel discussions with industry leaders. If you are interested in exhibiting, spaces are available for £300. Get in touch to find out more.
“With a diverse and multidisciplinary membership from the construction industry, Preferred Partners provides a great opportunity for individuals and businesses to collaborate and work together on projects of all sizes. I’m looking forward to the next one!” said Envision Design Group’s Michael Stephenson.
Lynas Engineers remains committed to driving these important conversations forward and playing an active role in the future of the Teesside business community.
