Orkney Islands Council (OIC) and Crown Estate Scotland have signed an agreement to work together in developing a deepwater quay at Scapa Flow
The memorandum of understanding between OIC and Crown Estate Scotland reflects a shared ambition to promote sustainable growth in the offshore wind sector in the seas around Scotland.
Scapa Flow – Europe’s largest natural harbour – is ideally placed to serve as a renewables hub supporting a major expansion of windfarms off the coast of Scotland.
The planned deepwater quay would be used to construct and assemble wind turbines, and as a base for maintenance and components storage.
Designed for use by large vessels involved in constructing offshore windfarms, it would have a water depth of 15 m alongside.
OIC council leader James Stockan said, “The project we are developing has huge potential as a key strategic asset underpinning Scotland’s climate change ambitions.
“As a purpose-built facility surrounded by the safe and sheltered waters of Scapa Flow, it would have a vital role to play in enabling a major expansion of offshore windfarms in Scottish waters.
“It is encouraging that windfarm developers have expressed considerable interest in getting involved in the project – and we are delighted Crown Estate Scotland will be working closely with us as it develops.
“I regard this as a once-in-a-generation opportunity, a transformational project that would deliver a major boost for our local economy – creating jobs and business opportunities throughout our islands.”
The Council has agreed to move ahead with the next phase of the deepwater quay initiative – a detailed appraisal of the costs involved and of potential sources of external funding for the project.
Crown Estate Scotland director of marine Colin Palmer said, “This announcement is an exciting example of how we are working with local authorities around Scotland to help tap into our fantastic natural marine resources in a sustainable way as we build towards helping Scotland get to net zero.
“Projects like this can drive investment into the blue economy and can hopefully help communities in Orkney realise the economic benefits of the major strides Scotland is taking in the development of offshore wind.”
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