UK: JDR to expand with PD Ports at Port of Hartlepool

JDR has been a tenant at the Port of Hartlepool since first acquiring 97,000 square foot (sq.ft.) of warehouse space in 2008 and subsequently transformed it in to a world-class manufacturing facility. Since then, JDR’s foothold has increased substantially and now includes three adjoining warehouses for manufacture and storage at the Port, totaling over 280,000 square feet.

The increased capacity will house a new state-of-the-art, high-capacity horizontal helix lay-up machine to manufacture umbilicals meeting the highest standards and technical specifications for steel and thermoplastic. The expansion will also provide additional storage for 6,000 metric tonnes of equipment.

David Currie, CEO of JDR, says: “On behalf of JDR we are delighted to be growing our footprint and manufacturing capabilities at Hartlepool. Crucially, this investment will enable JDR to offer unrivalled technical expertise to design, test and deliver the next generation of subsea technology. By planning for the long term, we can anticipate the future needs of our customers and cement our position as a trusted partner, and be an integral part of clients’ project success. It is good news for the area and more specifically for the current workforce who continue to be a fundamental part of our achievements.  We are equally excited to continue our relationship with PD Ports with the expansion of our facility.”

Richard Turner, COO of JDR, adds: “After the initial investment in our facility in Hartlepool in 2008, we have continued to invest incrementally in the site which is now a recognised world-wide centre of excellence for the design and manufacture of subsea power cables and umbilicals.  This next exciting phase of expansion, necessitated by growing demand for our products, underlines our long-term commitment to Hartlepool and will give JDR the capacity to be the technology partner of choice for customers in all segments of the offshore energy industry.”

Jerry Hopkinson, PD Ports’ Managing Director Bulks and Port Services, commented: “We are pleased to see PD Ports’ relationship with JDR continue through the growth of its world-class manufacturing facilities in Hartlepool. Our infrastructure at the Port is well suited to support companies within the energy sector due to its excellent transport links and distance to operations in the southern sector of the North Sea.

“The continued support and investment by JDR further strengthens the Port’s position as the hub for a thriving cluster of offshore related businesses and adds to its growing number of successes in this sector.”