The creation of new jobs by the �3m investment is excellent news and a much needed boost

Graham Hawker, WDA

It follows the announcement of record production levels, with over �27m of orders placed with businesses throughout north Wales and the north west of England in 2001.

The firm operates a gas terminal at Point of Ayr near Prestatyn which processes gas from its offshore Liverpool Bay development.

The mining giant decided to move to Northop because the proximity to its Liverpool Bay unit - the largest petroleum asset operated by BHP Billiton.

At the heart of the development is the Douglas offshore production complex, 24km off the north Wales coast.

BHP Billiton Vice President Nigel Smith said: "This demonstrates our faith in the north Wales and north west business community.

"We will continue to invest in the Liverpool Bay Asset for a long time to come."

Graham Hawker: 'Faith in region'

Members of the Welsh Development Agency (WDA) have said they are hopeful jobs will be created by the move.

WDA chief executive Graham Hawker said: "The decision is a clear indication of the company's faith in its staff, the local community and region."

"The creation of new jobs by the �3m investment is excellent news and a much needed boost."

Tuesday's decision follows the firms announcement of record production.

Not only does this further strengthen the company's base in Flintshire but it brings into use a prestigious office complex

Philip McGreevy, Flintshire County Council

Oil production for 2001 exceeded 2 million barrels compared to 17 million the year before.

BHP Billiton will move to offices formerly housed Kimberley Clark.

The Northop unit will be the base for the company's purchasing and buying unit.

Flintshire County Council Chief Executive Philip McGreevy said: "This decision is welcomed by the council and we have been happy to assist them.

"Not only does this further strengthen the company's base in Flintshire but it brings into use a prestigious office complex."

It has not been confirmed how many posts will be created by BHP Billiton.

Staff from London have been offered relocation packages.