AN international hi-tech company is creating new jobs as it doubles its turnover to £40 million.

Perry Slingsby Systems, in Kirkbymoorside, has been given the green light to build a new extension at its premises on the Ings Lane industrial estate.

The company produces remotely-operated underwater vehicles.

Kevin Taylor, the firm’s general manager, said the company had decided to consolidate its two main manufacturing units, in Kirkbymoorside and Florida, USA, into a single one based in the market town.

Mr Taylor said while the business had changed hands several times over the years, the core work had continued and grown. The estimated turnover for the Kirkbymoorside factory this year is £40 million, he said, and the projected staff numbers will increase by 25 to 160. Planning permission for the extension, which will house a new testing facility, was given the go-ahead by members of Ryedale District Council planning committee at their meeting last Tuesday.

Coun John Raper said: “The figures on staff and turnover are staggering and are to be welcomed and applauded. All power to the company.”

Coun Jane Wilford said: “Engineering is very important. This is a wonderful opportunity for Ryedale. We need to foster skills and empower young people.”

Julian Rudd, the council’s head of economy, said: “Perry Slingsby has played a key part in international rescue efforts and the company is a shining light of the Ryedale economy.”

Agents for Perry Systems, David Chapman Associates in Bishopthorpe, York, said the testing pool will replace an existing similar one in Florida and was essential for the expansion of the Kirkbymoorside business.