Shortlist for windfarm ops base

Navitus Bay Development Ltd (NBDL) says that the windfarm has the potential to add £1.85bn of economic value to the region and support up to 2,000 jobs during its construction.

But only one of the ports will be selected to be the windfarm’s operational base, which will be announced in due course.

Ian McQuade, general manager, Portland Port, said: “This is a very exciting and welcome development. This is also very good news not just for Weymouth and Portland but for the whole of Dorset and potentially represents a massive boost to the local economy not just now but for many years to come.”

NBDL has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the ports of Poole, Portland and Yarmouth to cooperate with the ports for maintenance and construction activities associated with the windfarm, such as turbine and foundation construction.

Mike Unsworth, project director, NBDL, said to Port Strategy: “The memorandum of understanding shows Navitus Bay’s commitment to working with the three ports to maximise the opportunity for the O&M base and, where feasible, the construction phases of the project. It will involve working with ports to develop detailed plans, engaging in early discussions with planning officers about any enabling works required and establishing commercial terms.”

NBDL says that the MoU will be entered into with all three ports in September 2013, with a view to carrying out studies to assess their suitability for the O&M base. These studies will take approximately six months and then a further announcement on the chosen location for the O&M base should be made by early 2015.

The windfarm development will bring lots of opportunities for local marine businesses too of course. Companies can get in contact through the website in order to capitalise in on business opportunities.

More information from www.navitusbaywindpark.co.uk