A MARINE and engineering firm has opened a new North-East office to extend its work on North Sea projects.

London Offshore Consultants (LOC) is now based in Cobalt Business Park, North Tyneside, offering marine and civil engineering, naval architecture and renewable services.

The firm, which was founded in 1979, has 24 offices across the world and employs about 250 people.

It specialises in shipping work on marine casualties, accident investigation and claims and disputes, with its energy arm focusing on warranty surveys, loss prevention and inspections.

Peter Holloway, LOC’s regional director for Europe and Africa, said: “Newcastle is a thriving maritime hub and the North Sea is hugely important for the oil and gas and renewable energy sectors.

“This new office will allow us to serve our growing customer base more effectively.”