Port expansion plans could bring 'hundreds of jobs'
Port of BlythMultimillion-pound plans to expand a port have been revealed, which bosses say could create jobs.
The Battleship Wharf Expansion scheme at Blyth in Northumberland aims to reclaim up to three hectares (seven acres) of land from the estuary to improve capacity.
This will enable it to handle larger offshore energy projects and emerging low carbon technologies.
Chief executive of the Port of Blyth Martin Lawlor said: "This is a landmark moment for the Port and for the wider region."
He added: "We are taking a significant step forward in creating jobs, and reinforcing Blyth's position at the heart of the UK's energy transition."
The project would see up to 260m (853ft) of quay extensions and rock revetments - sloping structures on embankments which reduce coastal erosion - built.
Navigation channels will be dredged to make them deeper to allow larger ships and equipment to use the port.
The first phase of the scheme, which will happen over a number of years and could see as much as £100m being invested, is being jointly funded by Port of Blyth, Northumberland County Council and the North East Combined Authority.
They are matching £275,000 awarded by The Crown Estate.
The council said the plans could attract "clean energy manufacturers, generate hundreds of new jobs, and deliver significant economic benefits to the North East", with deputy leader Richard Wearmouth adding it was "vital in an increasingly competitive world that Blyth and Northumberland remain at the forefront of this industry".
Chief executive of the North East Combined Authority Henry Kippin said the investment "strengthens our region's ability to deliver offshore wind at scale".
