Hunterston upgrade boosts offshore wind

The group says it is readying the site in preparation for major offshore wind projects and has submitted a formal planning application and competitive tender process.

The work will include substantial upgrades to the marine yard and utilities including the current dry-dock basin and construction of a new quay wall.

“Scotland already has the reputation, infrastructure and talent needed to support offshore renewable energy projects and meet our national aspirations for the environment and green jobs,” said Lewis McIntyre, managing director – Port Services at Peel Ports Group.

“Our plans for Hunterston reflect our ambitions for a net-zero future, supporting offshore wind developments along the west coast of the UK and the east coast of Ireland, as well as supporting our local construction partners.”

Peel Ports held a series of public consultations at the end of last year and obtained initial expressions of interest from developers earlier this year. The project will require planning permission, marine licences and other consents, and will include an environmental impact assessment, before any works can begin.

It currently estimates the consenting process will be complete by the end of the year, followed by two years of construction.

Peel Ports has begun talks with several potential tenants for the offshore wind site, which will take up around 90 acres of the 320 being redeveloped at Hunterston for the blue and green economies, with the remaining 700 acres safeguarded for natural capital and biodiversity.