PD Ports aims to develop one of the UK’s largest offshore wind manufacturing and installation hubs – the Teesport Offshore Gateway.
“Unlocking 180 acres (730,000m²) of development potential for a range of offshore manufacturers, assembly, marshalling and supply chain support services, the proposed site will confirm Teesside’s place at the heart of the UK push for Net Zero and energy independence,” said PD Ports in a statement.
Representing a significant investment in the River Tees, the Teesport Offshore Gateway will include an up to 1km long deep-water riverside quay, allowing unrestricted access to the North Sea and suitable for both floating and fixed bottom offshore wind development.
While the plans at an early stage and subject to a variation of existing deep water berth development consents, it is anticipated that development of Teesport Offshore Gateway could cost in the region of GB£200 million (US$267 million) and would secure critical port facilities in support of the UK Government’s offshore wind development ambitions.
PD Ports wants to engage with the offshore renewables sector to explore the potential of the proposals, working with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), developers, the UK Government and industry experts to shape the strategic direction of the site and identify opportunities for collaboration and funding.
The site has already secured both planning and marine consents, subject to amendments, to extend an existing riverside berth to develop the 15.5m deep-water mooring, which would be able to accommodate all current and planned offshore installation vessels available globally.
The creation of a new deep-water berth for Teesport will also future-proof the port, opening up wider opportunities for additional bulk and container facilities.
Frans Calje, CEO of PD Ports, commented: “As the UK and the wider world turns its attention to large-scale renewable energy sources, here at PD Ports we see the opportunity – and the responsibility – 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 have 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.”
