OIL, gas and renewable energy services company CLS Offshore has unveiled its new headquarters in Great Yarmouth.

A total investment in the region of �300,000 has been made modernising and upgrading the former council offices off Malthouse Lane, further developing the quayside site and centralising its operations.

“The new office facility gives us significantly more space than our previous Bessemer Road site,” said managing director, Steve Johnson. “We’ve completely refurbished the building enabling us to manage our entire operation from one location and providing the capacity for our future growth.”

He told around 100 guests it was a significant moment in the companys history.

The company, currently employing about 180 people, specialises in engineering, fabrication, construction and installation work offshore. It is also currently completing a major project at one of the Bacton gas terminals where it has in the region of 50 personnel on site.

He added: “As local people we place great importance on, where possible, using a local supply chain and work force. We believe Great Yarmouth has all the necessary infrastructure and tools to ensure it remains a world leading all energy hub and allow us to fulfill our vision for the future.

“We are committed to investing in our people and introducing the next generation of skills through the apprenticeship scheme and EEEGRs Skills for Energy programme.”

John Best, chief executive of EEEGR (East of England Energy Group), stepped in for the official opening ceremony after Yarmouth MP Brandon Lewis was recalled to Parliament at short notice.

Pictured: CLS Offshore managing director Steve Johnson (left) with John Best, unveiling the new HQ opening plaque.