North East England

Having developed over decades into a globally significant cluster, the North East’s Chemicals & Process sector is one of the largest in the UK with a long history of success.

The number of biotechnology companies in North East England has doubled over a three year period, as this emerging sector has become a major focal point for growth. Large scale developments include a new £200m biomass power station planned for Tees Valley.

Although Tees Valley in particular is a major hub for the industry, there are around 200 chemical, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies spread across the North East. Between them they employ 34,000 people who help contribute £9bn to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

"A recent MORI opinion poll named North East England the UK's most favoured location for the chemical Industry."

The North East’s dominance in this sector is significant, accounting for 58% of the UK’s petrochemical industry and 35% of its pharmaceutical output.

Key global players in the North East include SABIC UK Petrochemicals, bio-diesel producer Petroplus and leading pharmaceutical manufacturer Sanofi-Aventis. Highly innovative biotechnology company, Avecia Biologics has invested in a £75 million state-of-the-art Advanced Biologics Centre at Billingham.

Wilton International in Tees Valley is one of the few sites in Western Europe with special development status enabling it to be used for chemical processing.

The National Skills Academy for the process industries in Darlington, Tees Valley can provide high level customised training.

Professions in this sector include: production and process engineers, works and maintenance engineers, chemists and pharmacologists, IT specialists, research specialists, electricians, machine setters and site managers.

Science and engineering based qualifications are highly valued, such as NVQs in Process Operations and Engineering Maintenance.

New job openings at senior levels are anticipated for those with knowledge of greener technology such as biofuels.