WSP helps secure Port of Blyth expansion

WSP has successfully coordinated a major planning application for the Port of Blyth, as the Northumberland based port celebrates the green light to expand.

The planning application, which was granted by Northumberland strategic planning committee, was submitted as part of a £20m five-year investment plan. This project will boost regeneration of the industrial area and provide new jobs within the local community.

The Port of Blyth is one of the UK’s leading offshore energy bases and is home to some of the sector’s leading companies. With the plans now in place for its commercial expansion, it will see an increase in both marine and property related revenues.

As well as the coordination of the planning application, WSP supported the Port of Blyth in noise and drainage services, providing solutions involving new noise attenuation and high palisade fencing which enabled the project’s unanimous approval. The construction of new warehouses to allow for greater operation have also been approved by the council.

David Green, associate director and WSP project manager of the scheme, said: “It’s extremely satisfying to see a project we’ve been working on since June 2019 reach this significant stage. The approval of the planning application is a positive reflection on the coordination efforts of the entire project team and it’s great to see the project receive the green light to proceed with its important regeneration plans.”

Alan Todd, port director at Port of Blyth, said: “We’re delighted that the planning application process has reached a successful conclusion as the Bates Terminal redevelopment will be a key driver of growth and opportunity for the port over the coming years. The input of WSP was instrumental in this success.”

WSP, which has offices in Newcastle and Middlesbrough, has delivered a variety of projects in the North of England maritime sector for over ten years. These range from advising the public sector on marine facilities to support offshore wind, through management of marine (and onshore) consents for the Tyne Tunnel, to advisory and design services for clients including the Port of Sunderland, the Port of Tyne and Cumbrian ports.