Port announces ‘landmark’ expansion plans

A North East port operator has unveiled major investment plans aimed at supporting the next generation of clean energy projects and ensuring the region is “the home of the green energy revolution”.

Port of Blyth’s proposed £100 million Battleship Wharf expansion will boost infrastructure capacity for larger offshore developments and emerging low-carbon technologies.

Announced at the Port’s Annual Public Meeting, the development will include around three hectares of reclaimed land, up to 260 metres of quay extensions and upgraded marine infrastructure linked to the deepwater berth beside the JDR cable factory.

Channel and berth deepening will also allow larger vessels to access the Port, while new heavy-duty handling equipment will support next-generation offshore wind components.

The early development phase is being jointly funded by Port of Blyth, Northumberland County Council and the North East Combined Authority, matching £275,000 secured from The Crown Estate’s Supply Chain Accelerator fund.

Building on more than 25 years of involvement in offshore wind, the project is expected to strengthen the Port’s role in the UK’s clean energy supply chain while creating hundreds of jobs and attracting further regional investment.

Martin Lawlor OBE, chief executive of the Port of Blyth, said: “This is a landmark moment for the Port and for the wider region. 

“The Battleship Wharf Expansion will ensure we have the infrastructure, capacity and capability to support the next generation of offshore wind and clean energy projects. 

“With strong backing from our regional partners, we are taking a significant step forward in driving sustainable growth, creating jobs, and reinforcing Blyth’s position at the heart of the UK’s energy transition.”

Artist’s impression of the proposed Battleship Wharf expansion plans 

Martin Lawlor OBE, chief executive of the Port of Blyth, speaking at the Port’s Annual Public Meeting

The announcement follows confirmation from The Crown Estate of new offshore wind seabed leasing opportunities off the North East coast, further positioning the region as a key player in the UK’s future energy infrastructure.

Henry Kippin, chief executive of the North East Combined Authority, added: “This investment is part of the mayor’s mission to make the North East the home of the green energy revolution. 

“By supporting infrastructure like the Battleship Wharf Expansion, we are strengthening our region’s ability to deliver offshore wind at scale, unlocking jobs and investment, and ensuring the North East is ready to seize the opportunities created by new seabed leasing off our coast.

“The North East Combined Authority is proud to be supporting the early development of this scheme. 

“By backing strategic infrastructure like this, we are helping to unlock long-term investment, create skilled jobs and ensure our region is fully prepared to take advantage of new offshore wind opportunities off the North East coast.

“This is exactly the kind of partnership-led, delivery-focused investment that will drive sustainable growth, strengthen supply chains and ensure the benefits of the clean energy transition are felt across our communities.”

Councillor Richard Wearmouth, deputy leader of Northumberland County Council and cabinet member for regeneration, added: “We’re delighted to be supporting this latest expansion at the Port of Blyth.

“The Port is at the heart of the clean energy revolution and it’s vital in an increasingly competitive world that Blyth and Northumberland remain at the forefront of this industry. 

“With massive investment already committed to the surrounding area this will be yet another reason for manufacturers to set up in our county.”

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