The Port of Blyth has launched its Battleship Wharf Expansion scheme, outlining a development programme of up to £100 million ($136 million) aimed at expanding port capacity and reinforcing its role in the UK offshore energy supply chain.
The announcement was made at the port’s Annual Public Meeting, with early-stage funding jointly provided by Northumberland County Council (NCC), the North East Combined Authority (NECA) and the port itself.
Additional support includes £275,000 ($374,765) from The Crown Estate, awarded through its £50 million ($68 million) Supply Chain Accelerator fund.
The project is positioned as a long-term infrastructure upgrade to support offshore wind growth and emerging low-carbon industries, building on more than 25 years of offshore wind activity at Blyth.
Planned works include approximately three hectares of reclaimed land, up to 260 metres of quay extensions and rock revetment connecting to a new deep-water berth adjacent to the JDR cable facility.
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Channel and berth deepening will enable access for larger vessels, supported by upgraded heavy-lift handling equipment designed for next-generation offshore components.
Collectively, the expansion is expected to increase operational capacity, attract clean energy manufacturing activity and generate wider regional economic benefits through supply chain development and job creation.
The timing of the project aligns with recent seabed leasing announcements by The Crown Estate, which opened new offshore wind development opportunities off the North East coast, further strengthening the region’s strategic role in the UK energy transition.
Martin Lawlor OBE, Chief Executive, The Port of Blyth, said: “This is a landmark moment for the Port and for the wider region. The Battleship Wharf Expansion will ensure we have the infrastructure, capacity and capability to support the next generation of offshore wind and clean energy projects. With strong backing from our regional partners, we are taking a significant step forward in driving sustainable growth, creating jobs, and reinforcing Blyth’s position at the heart of the UK’s energy transition.”
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Henry Kippin, Chief Executive, North East Combined Authority (NECA), stated: “This investment is part of the Mayor’s mission to make the North East the home of the Green Energy Revolution. By supporting infrastructure like the Battleship Wharf Expansion, we are strengthening our region’s ability to deliver offshore wind at scale, unlocking jobs and investment, and ensuring the North East is ready to seize the opportunities created by new seabed leasing off our coast.
Councillor Richard Wearmouth, Deputy Leader, Northumberland County Council (NCC), said: “We’re delighted to be supporting this latest expansion at the Port of Blyth. The port is at the heart of the clean energy revolution and it’s vital in an increasingly competitive world that Blyth and Northumberland remain at the forefront of this industry. With massive investment already committed to the surrounding area this will be yet another reason for manufacturers to set up in our county.”
For more information:
Port of Blyth – https://portofblyth.co.uk/
