Leading architecture practice Ryder has seen rising turnover and profits as it was appointed to some of the developments changing the face of the North East.
Accounts for the Newcastle firm for the year ending April 30 2020 show that turnover grew 14% to £19.3m, while operating profits went from £1.2m to £1.7m.
The practice has offices in London, Liverpool, Hong Kong, Vancouver and Amsterdam, as well as its Newcastle base.
It has recruited more than 50 new members of staff in recent months after a series of project wins, including the new Whipps Cross Hospital in London, the Factory cultural space in Manchester and the regeneration of the former Tetley's factory in Leeds.
Closer to home, Ryder has been involved in plans for Durham County Council's new headquarters, the Bank House development in Newcastle and the 'Whey Aye Wheel' on the city's riverside, as well as the maintenance base for the Dogger Bank wind farm at the Port of Tyne.
In the accounts, Ryder said that it had taken measures to mitigate the affects of the Covid-19 pandemic, including the use of Government support schemes and payment holidays after the year end.
But it said that it had also secured 'significant contracts post year end' that placed it well for the future.
Managing partner Mark Thompson said: “Our wide portfolio of sectors involve us working with a broad range of clients – private businesses, developers, contractors, national and local government bodies.
“The success of these sectors requires us to continue to be responsive to our clients and also requires a strong economy, stable political climate and a positive investment and planning environment.
“The construction industry generally remains uncertain and difficult. However, our current pipeline for the 2021 financial year is strong across all our established sectors.
“The directors are pleased with the results for the year given the uncertain climate both nationally and internationally. We are conservatively optimistic for the ongoing and sustained growth and development of Ryder subject to the resolution of Brexit and the end of the pandemic.”
The year saw Ryder's senior partner Peter Buchan retire, along with Glasgow-based partner Gordon Murray. Mark Carter in London, Mark Clasper in Newcastle, and Chris Malcolm in Glasgow were promoted to partners to strengthen the leadership team.
