UK port expansion approval

The Port of Blyth’s planning application, granted by Northumberland Strategic Planning Committee, was submitted as part of a GB£20m five-year investment plan for the Bates terminal. This project will boost regeneration of the industrial area and provide new jobs within the local community.

Engineering professional services consultancy WSP coordinated the planning application submission.

Alan Todd, director at Port of Blyth, one of the UK’s leading offshore energy bases, said:“We’re delighted that the planning application process has reached a successful conclusion as the Bates Terminal redevelopment will be a key driver of growth and opportunity for the port over the coming years. The input of WSP was instrumental in this success.”

As well as the coordination of the planning application, WSP supported the Port of Blyth in noise and drainage services, providing solutions involving new noise attenuation and high palisade fencing which enabled the project’s unanimous approval. The construction of new warehouses to allow for greater operation have also been approved by the council.

David Green, associate director and WSP project manager of the scheme, said:“It’s extremely satisfying to see a project we’ve been working on since June 2019 reach this significant stage. The approval of the planning application is a positive reflection on the coordination efforts of the entire project team and it’s great to see the project receive the green light to proceed with its important regeneration plans.”