£400m energy park plan unveiled

PLANS have been unveiled for a £400m waterside energy park in the region which could create 20,000 jobs.

Teesside firm Able UK wants to build an “international centre” for renewable energy on the south bank of the River Humber.

The project, which would see Able UK build a mile-long quay at its 2,000 acre Able Humber Port site at Immingham, will aim to attract large offshore wind turbine manufacturers.

Also planned is a 300MW biomass power station which would create enough electricity to power 500,000 homes.

Simon Hill, executive director of business at Yorkshire Forward, welcomed the announcement.

Mr Hill said: “Yorkshire Forward has supported the significant economic development opportunities offered by the Humber estuary over a number of years.

“The potential for the creation of tens of thousands of jobs in the region through the off shore wind sector is strongly recognised by the growing global industry. We welcome Able UK’s plan to create a marine energy park to accommodate part of this development potential are a major step forward. “

Mr Hill said the Humber estuary was the right location to provide the services required by wind turbine manufacturers and would also sit close to three of the government’s planned largest off shore wind farms.

Able UK’s founder and chief executive, Peter Stephenson, said the Humber Marine Energy Park plan would greatly boost the regional economy.

Associated British Ports is planning a similar project on the north bank of the Humber.