AN advanced engineering firm says it is defying the oil and gas sector’s difficulties to double its workforce.

Applus RTD UK is expanding after switching operations to a new 4,500sq ft site.

The firm, based on Queens Meadow Business Park, in Hartlepool, specialises in inspection and testing for the oil and gas, and power sectors.

It says the move will lift its workforce from 11 to 24.

The company, which employs more than 300 staff across the UK, says the move to the Rivergreen Business Centre, at Queens Meadow, will deliver significant benefits to maintain its growth.

Queens Meadow is part of the Tees Valley Enterprise Zone, and bosses say it has created nearly 200 jobs since in 2013.

Stuart Gilfillan, manager of Applus’ Hartlepool operation, said those successes gave the firm great confidence over its future in the region.

He added: “The Rivergreen units are modern, there is easy access to the A19, and we are entitled to the enterprise zone incentives, which will help us to grow the business during challenging economic times.

“When we were looking for bigger premises to expand in the North-East, Queens Meadow ticked all the boxes.”

The business park is one of eight sites identified in a blueprint from Hartlepool Council to create new jobs and boost the town’s economy.

Councillor Christopher Akers-Belcher, Hartlepool Borough Council leader, said Applus’ commitment to the area was significant.

He added: “This is excellent news and a further boost for Queens Meadow, which is really thriving at the moment.

“The enterprise zones offer tremendous incentives to companies and I’m delighted Applus has chosen Hartlepool to expand and create vital new jobs.”

Applus’ regional RTD site forms part of its wider UK division, which includes bases in Aberdeen, Great Yarmouth and Gloucester.

The company also operates a number of other businesses, such as Applus Automotive, which focuses on vehicle inspection services and gas testing, and Applus Idiada, which works on design, engineering and testing for the automotive industry globally.