Member Article

Manufacturing investment could land North East millions in Dogger Bank work

The North East and Yorkshire offshore supply chain could provide up to 36% of the ‘content’ for the Dogger Bank wind farm project, work equating to £1.3 billion of investment.

According to a study into the economic impact of the project, which will lie 100 km off the coast of Teesside, the benefits to UK firms could be upped if new manufacturing facilities are established.

The four Dogger Bank projects are estimated to create 4,500 direct and indirect job and the UK supply chain could provide up to 38% of the total content for the developments - an investment of £7 billion.

FOREWIND, a consortium of energy firms that licensing the biggest of the wind farms at Dogger Bank, suggest the project will contribute £1.3 billion to the North East and Yorkshire & Humber economies.

Most jobs will be focussed on the manufacturing, construction and installation phases of Dogger Bank, however, longer term operation maintenance roles will also be created.

The report suggests the regions’ close proximity, port infrastructure and production capabilities will stand them in good stead to win work ahead of other regions.

Port side facilities around the Humber, Tees, Sunderland, Tyne and Blyth are highlighted in the study, along with renewables-led promotion activities.

North East Chamber of Commerce Policy and Research Manager, Mark Stephenson, said: “It is hugely exciting to see this project taking shape following many years of planning.

“The North East has an embarrassment of riches in port and industrial infrastructure, as well as a wide range of specialist businesses that will help make Dogger Bank a reality – and generate jobs and wealth in the North East as a result.

“The North East and Humberside will benefit more than any of the other regions from an estimated £27 billion programme of investment in the 7.2GW offshore wind farm – the largest of its type in the world.

“This project alone has the potential to create over 13,000 jobs in the North East and Humberside with an added £3.3 billion in regional gross value added – mainly within the manufacturing sector.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Tom Keighley .