Able gets government permission for Marine Energy Park

What looks set to be the biggest manufacturing facility of offshore wind in Europe has been granted government approval. Transport secretary Robert Goodwill made the announcement that the Able Marine Energy Park in north Lincolnshire has been given the go-ahead.

Some 4,000 jobs are set to be created at the mammoth facility, boosted further by the neighbouring Able Logistics Park, which has already received planning permission and will create almost 6,000 jobs on top of those at the Marine Energy Park. 

The decision to grant permission follows on from a number of delays and a lengthy battle by Able for planning consent for the 900 acres site. According to the company, the area is large enough to house a number of supply chain companies and manufacturers. The location is also ideal, as it is in close proximity to the proposed largest offshore wind farms in the world. Able has said that around two-thirds of the land will be covered with a number of manufacturing firms. 

The £450 million scheme, coupled with the £100 million logistics park, will have a positive impact on the local economy for a number of years, as well as provide parts for offshore wind developments that could help the world's efforts to invest in more renewable energy projects. The increase in offshore wind farms could help to reduce carbon emissions and stall climate change.

Councillor Liz Redfern, leader of the North Lincolnshire Council, told the Grimsby Telegraph: "Able UK and others have worked incredibly hard to bring about this result. This is fantastic news and a great opportunity which will unlock the economic potential of the Humber estuary.

"The go-ahead signifies a real turning point in the manufacturing and engineering industry and brings a significant boost to local industry and jobs. It will totally transform the northern Lincolnshire economy and wider region."

The development could also help further the energy projects taking place in the Humber, helping the UK to meet its EU emissions targets.