Confidence is high at the North Yorkshire development and construction company Harrison, which sees no let- up in business in 2005.

The Malton-based, privately-owned firm expects to report a record year in 2004 when it releases its results in the spring. With the group enjoying significant successes across the north of England, the trend looks set to continue next year.

Harrison is behind many of the region's high-profile developments. Its construction operation recently completed work on Meridian 2, the major new office development in Blossom Street, York, which is set to become the new HQ for Jarvis; and it continues to work on the science park expansion at the University of York.

The developments team is the driver behind the revitalisation of Tedder Road in York, where social and private housing is being provided; and the firm also plans to build new homes at Birch Park during 2005.

Martyn Harrison, chairman of the firm his father established more than 50 years ago, said it was the mix of work that gave him the greatest cause for optimism.

"We have seen the geographical base of our work expand, with us now working on major projects in South Yorkshire, Tyneside and Cumbria, as well as in our York and North Yorkshire heartlands.

"Work spans major town centre redevelopments like the £50 million Workington regeneration project, to high- quality offices. While residential development is a significant part of our business, we are equally at home delivering quality sheds at Thorp Arch. It is the breadth of our portfolio that will help secure our expansion."

Harrison has also strengthened its team, with Chris Walker joining to head the construction operation, and David Clancy joining the board of S Harrison Developments Ltd as development director.

Major projects in the offing for 2005 include a £20 million redevelopment programme on the banks of the River Tyne in Newcastle and the regeneration of some of Sheffield's former industrial zones.

But Mr Harrison believed the biggest challenge was likely to be recruitment.

"Fortunately, good businesses attract good people, so we have been cushioned from the skills shortage affecting many in the industry.

"Having said that, we're always on the lookout for good new people, right across the jobs spectrum."

Updated: 11:20 Tuesday, January 04, 2005