PD Ports unveils Teesport Offshore Gateway plan

PD Ports has unveiled a plan to develop what would be one of the UK’s largest offshore wind manufacturing and installation hubs, Teesport Offshore Gateway

Unlocking 180 acres of development potential for a range of offshore manufacturers, assembly, marshalling and supply chain support services, the facility on the proposed site would be a multi-million pound investment and include an up to 1-km long deepwater riverside quay, permitting unrestricted access to the North Sea and suitable for both floating and fixed bottom offshore wind development.

Set in the heart of PD Ports’ Teesport industrial port complex, the UK’s sixth-largest port, the site offers a strategically located position for development, supported by quality infrastructure, strong road and rail links and a skilled workforce.

While the plans are at an early stage and subject to a variation of existing deepwater berth development consents, it is anticipated that development of Teesport Offshore Gateway could cost in the region of £200M (US$268M).

PD Ports is looking to engage with the offshore renewables sector to explore the potential of the proposals, working with original equipment manufacturers, developers, the UK government and industry experts to shape the strategic direction of the site and identify opportunities for collaboration and funding. It is hoped that by announcing the initiative at an early stage, insight from the offshore sector will aid the design of more detailed plans to meet future industry requirements.

The site has already secured both planning consent and marine consent, subject to amendments, to extend an existing riverside berth to develop the 15.5-m deepwater mooring, which would be large enough to accommodate all current and planned offshore installation vessels available globally.

PD Ports chief executive Frans Calje said, “One of Teesside’s great strengths is its ability to reinvent itself in the face of change. As the UK and the wider world turns its attention to large-scale renewable energy sources, here at PD Ports we see the opportunity to play our part by offering an offshore wind development site that is perfectly positioned to unlock the capability of our region, not only as a hub for trade and industry, but also to deliver the clean energy revolution.

“Teesport and the River Tees has everything required to successfully operate what we believe will be one of the largest offshore wind manufacturing and assembly hubs on the east coast of the UK, offering unrivalled access to the North Sea.

“Although these proposals are at an early stage, we are confident this development will support the UK government’s ambitions for future offshore wind power generation. We also firmly believe a facility such as this will lead to significant job creation, driving growth, employment and skills training opportunities in our coastal communities.”