Peel Ports Clydeport is set to invest heavily in transforming Hunterston marine yard, paving the way for an offshore wind hub.
- The former coal terminal will support offshore wind projects, with a planning application already submitted for the site’s redevelopment.
- Key upgrades include infilling the dry-dock basin and constructing a new quay wall to support the offshore wind sector.
- The redevelopment covers 90 acres of the 320-acre site, poised to play a vital role in renewable energy and local job creation.
- Peel Ports is engaging potential tenants and anticipates completing the consenting process by year-end, initiating a two-year construction phase.
Peel Ports Clydeport has announced a substantial investment plan for the redevelopment of the Hunterston marine yard in Ayrshire, committing up to £150 million. This ambitious project aims to transform the erstwhile coal terminal into a pivotal base for the offshore wind industry. A planning application has been lodged, signalling the commencement of the redevelopment process.
The redevelopment plan is comprehensive, involving significant upgrades such as infilling the existing dry-dock basin and the construction of a new quay wall. These enhancements are vital to establishing a robust infrastructure that supports offshore wind projects along the UK’s west coast and Ireland’s east coast.
Peel Ports is actively seeking to contribute to Scotland’s quest for a net-zero future by supporting offshore wind developments. According to Lewis McIntyre, the port services managing director, the infrastructure and talent in Scotland are well-positioned to support such renewable energy projects. He emphasised that with collaboration and investment, the aspirational goals of the green energy sector are within reach.
Prior to this announcement, Peel Ports conducted several public consultations to incorporate community feedback into the redevelopment plans. Furthermore, initial expressions of interest from potential developers were garnered earlier this year, which marks a critical step towards the project’s realisation. However, progressing further will necessitate securing planning permissions, marine licences, and other consents alongside undertaking an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).
The ambitious plans envisage the transformation of approximately 90 acres of the 320-acre site, thereby continuing the evolution of the Hunterston site which currently includes options for an undersea energy cable factory and an aquaculture facility. Peel Ports has already commenced discussions with prospective tenants to occupy the offshore wind site.
The £150 million redevelopment of Hunterston is set to significantly bolster offshore wind capabilities in Scotland and Ireland, marking a step towards a sustainable energy future.
