One of the most crucial phases in the revitalisation of the former steelworks site in Redcar has been kickstarted.
UK contractor Graham was at the vast Teesworks to meet Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen and Mary Lanigan, Leader of Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council, to start work on a new 1.2km quay.
The development will give vital access to the river for GE Renewable Energy’s keystone wind turbine blade facilityas it loads out and ships the 107m blades for the Dogger Bank wind farm and others across the world and help position the site as the UK’s premier offshore wind hub.
The quay forms part of the wider 4.5m sq ft of advanced manufacturing and industrial space set to be built on 450acres of land next to the wharf.
The work includes ripping out dilapidated concrete and wooden jetties and means two million tonnes of earth will be excavated to create a deep-water facility.
A crane has been delivered to the site this week ahead of the installation of 300 6ft wide, 30metre-long tubular piles that will be pushed into the riverbank to create the 15-acre hardstanding and logistical space.
Ben Houchen said: “This marks a milestone in our investment to create the UK’s premier offshore wind hub. The quay will be a huge asset, firmly putting Teesworks at the forefront of the offshore wind sector and will be an important draw for other businesses looking to invest on the site.
“I’ve said a lot about our accelerated demolition programme to get the site investor-ready and to help create thousands of well-paid, good-quality jobs for people across Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool – but today’s news shows we’re building things as well."
Mary Lanigan, Leader of Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council, said: “This is another breakthrough moment as the development of our word class port and industrial facilities continue. We have a fantastic partner in GE and we look forward to working with them more as we continue to attract the high quality jobs our residents deserve for generations to come.”
Paul Scott, Graham Contract Director, said: “We are committed to enhancing the fortunes of people in the area, supporting community organisations and giving local people the opportunity to play their part in such a major project.”
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