THE multi-million pound rebirth of a famous North-East shipyard has taken a major step forward.

The partner to develop the former Swan Hunter yard was confirmed by North Tyneside Council’s cabinet last week, but is unable to be identified until the formal procurement process is completed over the coming weeks.

Once in place they will take the lead in developing the infrastructure on the site, now called Jupiter PaRC@Swans, including providing ready-to move-into manufacturing accommodation for employers keen to set up business and create jobs.

A masterplan is in place, showing the site has the potential to accommodate up to 50,000sq metres of new manufacturing and office space.

And £13.6m of funding has been secured to deliver the improvements to complement the regeneration, including dredging of the quay berths, repair and strengthening of the quay walls, new electricity and water supplies, road and access improvements.

The next phase will see facilities for new small and micro businesses focused on innovation and research and development, with the creation of a business incubation and research and development centre on the site which is part of 60 hectares designated as an enterprise zone for advanced manufacturing and low carbon growth.