Green Port Hull approval sends positive signal to further investors
DETAILED planning consent for the Green Port Hull development sends a positive signal to further investors whilst marking a crucial step forward in plans for establishing Hull as the UK’s Energy Estuary, business figures have said.
The council gave consent for the wind turbine construction and assembly facility at Hull’s Alexandra Dock, following the submission of detailed plans by Associated British Ports (ABP) and Siemens in June.
Peter Aarosin, chair of the Bondholders marketing organisation which promotes Hull and the Humber, said: “It is encouraging to see this hugely important development make such smooth progress through the planning process. The rapid transition of these plans from submission to approval and the backing of the planning committee reflect exactly the kind of highly-supportive environment investors appreciate and which can be highly influential in the process of site selection.
“This sends a very positive signal to other potential investors that Hull and the wider Humber region are open for business and investor-friendly.
“The commitment by Siemens and ABP to begin construction by the end of 2014 will also encourage further potential investors in the offshore wind sector, and its extensive supply chain, to move forward with their own plans. We can expect the ripple effect of investment to gather rapid momentum, ultimately bringing thousands of new jobs to the region.”
The £310m investment will create up to 1,000 jobs directly – 550 at the blade factory and 450 at Green Port Hull – with additional jobs during construction and indirectly in the supply chain.
The first turbines to be assembled at the offshore wind turbine plant could be ready for shipping by 2018.
Councillor Steven Brady from Hull City Council said the decision marks a crucial step forward in plans for establishing Hull as the UK’s Energy Estuary.
“We are delighted with the plans presented by Siemens and ABP for the proposed wind turbine assembly and service facility at Alexandra Dock and we look forward to working with our partners on this key project,” he said. “This will not only make a huge difference to the city’s economy, but also help transform green energy and ensure that Hull is the market leader for the UK’s offshore wind industry.
“We are working closely with Siemens to ensure that the benefits from this landmark investment are maximised in terms of increased business activity and high quality employment. Coming fully on stream during the City of Culture celebrations, 2017 will be a truly transformational year for Hull.”
Planning applications for work at the Paull blade site are set to be submitted later this year to East Riding of Yorkshire Council.
