activity in Tyne and Wear's commercial property market has been brisk through 2007, with investors continuing to see the area as a great place for expansion, relocation and re-investment.

Automotive supplier MSSL and Cyprus-based shipping management firm Hanseatic are among several high-profile names that have moved to Tyne and Wear, continuing the region's popularity with overseas investors.

Hanseatic, one of the world's biggest shipping management companies, sailed into Tyneside in the spring with support from Tyne and Wear Development Company. It created 20 new jobs at Orion Business Park, in North Tyneside, after buying a 2,250 sq ft office at Gladman Developments' Hedley Court site.

The scale of reinvestment has been significant too, with firms like GE Money announcing plans to build a 100,000 sq ft office facility that will create 400 new jobs at Cobalt Business Park in North Tyneside.

Established local companies have also kept the area's property market busy. Wearside manufacturing firm Cottam Brothers is moving to Monkton Business Park, in South Tyneside, after investing in new premises which will improve the efficiency of its operations. Tyne and Wear Development Company, one of the main facilitators of investment into the region for over 20 years, has worked directly on many of these transactions, providing vital support to businesses throughout the investment process.

Its experienced team is able to offer assistance in all areas of investment, from support in finding the right property to help accessing grants and financial assistance. An aftercare programme is also provided to ensure that investors' long-term development needs are met.

Paul Buie, manager of Tyne and Wear Development Company, said: "We are continuing to see significant investment into Tyne and Wear across a broad range of sectors and this is good news for the regional economy, creating new jobs and new opportunities for existing businesses."

For more information about opportunities and support, contact Tyne and Wear Development Company on 0191 516 9099 or visit www.tyne-wear.co.uk