John Barnes named new chief executive of Teesworks

The appointment was confirmed unanimously by the board on June 10.

Mr Barnes, who also serves as the corporation’s chief operating officer, will lead in separating leadership arrangements for Tees Valley Combined Authority (TVCA) and the South Tees Development Corporation (STDC).

This leadership move is a response to the Tees Valley Review, which was disclosed to the Government in September last year.John Barnes (Image: Supplied)

Mr Barnes, who has more than 25 years of experience in development, regeneration, and infrastructure projects, said: “I’m very pleased to take on the role of chief executive with the backing of the board.

“The huge progress being made across the Teesworks site is great to see – and the development corporation has played a key role in this alongside our Teesworks Ltd joint venture partners.

“We continue to play an important role in the delivery of key projects and infrastructure across the site, engaging with Government and ensuring we continue to see major projects, like Net Zero Teesside Power, delivered across the site.”

The South Tees Development Corporation is responsible for the regeneration of the former Redcar Steelworks, now known as Teesworks, a 4,500-acre site.

This site is being transformed into a green industry hub, securing billions in investment and creating thousands of skilled jobs.

As part of the Teesside Freeport, Teesworks is a leader in low-carbon energy initiatives across the UK.

It is home to projects such as SeAH Wind’s offshore wind monopile manufacturing facility, Steel River Quay, and Net Zero Teesside, the UK’s first gas-fired power station with carbon capture capability.

The developments are in line with the TVCA’s efforts to address the non-statutory Best Value Notice issued by the Government in April, with plans to be presented to the TVCA Cabinet in the forthcoming month.