Billingham-based Able UK has revealed plans to develop a major offshore wind hub at South Bank, South Tees Area, Redcar to support the assembly, installation, and servicing of the offshore wind power sector.
Able UK has engaged Prism Planning to prepare a planning application submission for the proposed development.
Prism Planning has submitted an application for a scoping opinion to the Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council for the proposed development which forms part of the former Redcar Steelworks site and extends to an area of approximately 72 hectares.
Given the location of the North Sea offshore wind farms, the application site provides an optimal location for a number of offshore projects, Prism Planning said. The use of the port will include heavy load operations and handling of the various elements that comprise an offshore wind turbine.
The proposed development essentially has four parts to it: the construction of new quays; dredging of the River Tees to provide a berthing pocket, deep enough approach channel and turning area; the setting out of the operational area; and, the operation of the site.
The development will provide facilities which will be primarily used for the installation of foundations and topsides for offshore wind turbines. Suitable office and welfare accommodation will be provided for up to 600 workers and management, the scoping request detail said.