CIVIL and structural engineering firm Portland Consulting Engineers hopes to nearly double its revenues over the next couple of years with a push into new markets.

The Gateshead-based firm said it suffered from the slump in the construction industry over the last three years and had to cut three staff.

But Portland, which now has eight staff, is fighting back with an ambitious plan to win new contracts both at home and abroad.

Managing director John Hardy said: “In 2008 when the recession began it hit us quite hard and I was feeling quite pessimistic.

“But I have been in this business through three recessions now and I am now pretty sure we have a way to come out of this one.

“We have a new strategy in place that includes marketing our experience and expertise. I have been in the business for 47 years and I know that we are much better than most of the competition.

“We are looking at getting into new niche markets and new areas. We have already done quite a bit of work in Scotland and are going to do more, and we are looking at possibilities in China. If we find the right business we may look at an acquisition.”