UK Docks has finalised a long-term lease with PD Ports for two additional dry docks in Teesside, tripling its operational size at the Smith Docks Company’s dockyards site.

This move is expected to create new jobs and enhance marine services along the river.

The company, which already managed two of the former Smith's dry docks, will now operate the entire estate, unifying the site for the first time since 1987.

UK Docks plans to transform Teesside into a marine maintenance and repair services hub.

The site, spanning ten acres with two dry docks and extensive workshops, will undergo modernisation in the coming years.

UK Docks managing director Jonathan Wilson said: “Work will start immediately bringing it back to life, and we expect to have it effectively operational again very soon.

“The lease effectively trebles UK Docks’ footprint on the Tees from five acres to 16.5 acres, and we plan to have both sites working in harmony with each other to the benefit of our customers.”

The new lease will add two more docks to UK Docks’ portfolio, with the larger dock enabling the company to cater to a wider range of vessels.

The expansion offers not only additional dock space but also lay-by berths, an extra 200m of quay space, and enhanced fabrication and engineering workshop facilities.

PD Ports CEO Frans Calje said: “We are delighted to agree this deal with UK Docks, which will see the full complement of dry docks on the Tees brought back into use and with great plans to upgrade the facilities.

“The dry docks at Tees Commerce Park have been a key part of the river economy for many years, back to the days of Smith’s Dock, and play a vital role in servicing and maintaining the many vessels that visit and work on this river.”

The expansion represents the company's second major investment in Teesside, following the initial restoration and revival of the former Smiths Dock Ship Repair Company on the Tees over a decade ago.