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Corus closure could see area flourish

May 10 2009 by Paul Loraine, Sunday Sun

“These two facts discourage new industries and enterprises from establishing themselves in that region.

“But experience worldwide has shown that once a steel plant goes from a region then that region usually flourishes.”

Dr Lee points to Newcastle in New South Wales, Australia as a perfect example of the positive aftermath of the shutting down of a plant.

BHP Billiton shut its steelworks there in 1999 and, he says, 10 years later the city has a booming economy based on tourism and new business enterprise.

He added: “It has gone from being what used to be nick-named ‘The Hell Hole of NSW’ to the most exciting and pleasant provincial City in Australia. Why can’t that happen to Teesside?

“I’m not saying we should be deliberately shutting them down. It’s a big employer and closure will have a big impact on the region.

“But if they do shut down these areas can be rejuvenated. And it is generally for the better.”

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