Tens of millions of pounds and 100 new jobs are expected to flow into the Angus economy due to the “golden glow” effect from North Sea oil and gas.
Servicing company Hydrus announced it will build a new technology centre by the A90 at Brechin Business Park creating 100 jobs over the next five years.
The firm believes it will bring millions of pounds into the Angus through the construction phase, increased manufacturing, new jobs and export growth.
Managing director Mark Williams said the firm plans to build servicing and storage that will train and attract a widely-skilled workforce over the next five years and expects to double its profits over that period.
A first tranche of expansion will extend more than 30,000sq ft beside the dual carriageway, with plans for future expansion rivalling firms from Aberdeen in terms of size and scope.
Mr Williams helped cut the sod to mark the start of construction with Angus Provost Helen Oswald.
Angus Council economic development officer Mark McGee said the number of opportunities stemming from a close association between Angus and Aberdeen are “incredibly exciting”.
“It’s almost as if the moons have aligned in this case,” he said. “There’s a golden glow which places like Montrose is already taking advantage of. And now we have firms like Hydrus in Brechin looking to take advantage.
“AND THIS is just the latest in a number of positive steps we’ve taken with private firms.
“Even a few years ago, when you’d mention (call centre firm) Journeycall in Laurencekirk looking for new premises, people would think that they’re an Aberdeen “firm and that would be it.
“Now they are coming to Arbroath.
“Everybody wins from this prosperous businesses and prosperous communities.”
Hydrus employs 50 people at its Eastmill Road site, which will trade in tandem with the new facility.
The new premises are scheduled for completion in spring next year.
Custom-built extra height space will enable large specialist engineering structures to be built on-site, ready for export.
Mr Williams said: “The growth of the energy sector in Aberdeen is spilling over into Angus for the areas’ benefit.
“It was a natural step for us to expand our portfolio of services and reach into a wider market.
“Brechin is a great location for us.
“We are creating huge structures for the oil and gas sector.
“Good transportation links are essential, so the proximity of the deep sea access at Montrose Port is a significant benefit, particularly as we look to expand our export markets.This exciting new development in Brechin ensures we are well placed to support the market trends that will shape our business and the future of the North Sea energy sector.”
Plans for business parks in Arbroath and Carnoustie, coupled with ongoing development at Brechin Business Park and Orchardbank in Forfar, are further cementing Angus’ status as an area on the up.
The council has developed a large commercial property portfolio and has more than 100 high-quality and affordable offices, workshops and industrial units, as well as a number of business parks to attract larger companies. Mrs Oswald said: “This new facility is great news for Hydrus and the county.
“Angus Council is delighted to be working with such an innovative company, whose enterprise and ambition is bringing jobs and economic benefit to Angus.”
Photo by Angus Pictures