The Port of Mostyn is engaging in a consultation process before formally submitting a planning application to Flintshire County Council. The purpose is to propose a change in land use to establish a manufacturing facility. This facility would focus on producing concrete gravity bases and steel structures specifically for offshore wind turbines. The Managing Director of the port, Jim O’Toole, anticipates that this endeavor could lead to a substantial increase in job opportunities.
In addition to the manufacturing plant, the project envisions the construction of modular offices and workshops. Simultaneously, the port has sought permission from Natural Resources Wales (NRW) for a marine license. This license is intended to enable the construction of a new quay wall, spanning 350 m, and the reclamation of 5.2 hectares of land adjacent to it. This expansion necessitates dredging work to create new berths for ships while also deepening existing berths, along with re-dredging the approach channel.
Pending approval, the construction phase is estimated to last around 21 months, subject to weather conditions. During this time, approximately 130 new job opportunities could be generated. The Port of Mostyn holds a significant historical role in the UK’s offshore wind energy sector, having been the site of the initial two windfarm projects. It has since participated in seven more offshore windfarm developments.
As part of the planning procedure, a 28-day consultation period is underway prior to the formal application submission to Flintshire County Council. Alongside this, an application has been submitted to Natural Resources Wales for the creation of new deep-water berths, a crucial aspect of the venture. The expansion will provide additional land for the storage and assembly of turbine components before their transportation to offshore windfarm locations.
The overarching goal is to accommodate the next generation of wind turbines, particularly the larger and heavier ones. The proposed infrastructure will serve a dual purpose, allowing for the fabrication and assembly of both fixed foundation and floating turbines. The focus is primarily on floating offshore wind turbines, in response to the increasing demand for renewable energy.
Concrete gravity bases will be produced locally using materials and labor from the region. Turbine components will then be imported for final assembly at the Port of Mostyn before integration with the foundations for deployment offshore.