Corus are investing in their Scunthorpe steel plant

The firm's construction and industrial business arm has unveiled plans to install an additional ladle furnace to boost steel-making at the plant.

The installation work will start in the coming months with production expected to begin early in 2005.

The �12m investment means the site will be able to treat special grades of steel using "enhanced facilities."

A specialist contractor has been awarded the job and Corus says the move is a key development in the firm's steelmaking restructuring plans.

Corus chief Andrew Page said: "This is a significant investment in our business. We have begun 2004 with a clear demonstration that we are planning for the future."