Siemens said that VolkerFitzpatrick’s bid was the “most competitive and robust proposal” for construction of the 40,000 m2 facility.
Construction will begin in August, with the factory scheduled to be completed in autumn 2016, to allow for the production of the first blades by the end of 2016. Around 200 jobs will be created during construction.
The facility will be used for manufacturing 75-metre span turbine blades and for the assembly, maintenance, storage and distribution of wind turbine components. The contract also involves the construction of office accommodation and welfare facilities.
Development on site will also include construction of a 12,000 m2 building for the service and maintenance of wind turbines and storage of parts and equipment required in pre-assembly phases, which will be subject to a separate contract.
VolkerFitzpatrick is already busy in Hull on works to strengthen the Albert Dock wall along the Humber, as well as improving flood defences in Cleethorpes and Grimsby.
Managing director Richard Offord said: “We are very proud to have been awarded the contract to build the blade factory for Siemens in Hull. This facility is a key element in establishing a new renewable energy industry in the UK, creating employment and wealth for the region. We look forward to working in collaboration with Siemens, stakeholders and our supply chain to demonstrate a one team approach for delivering this project.”
Siemens’ Hull project director Finbarr Dowling said: “People will soon see steel rising from the ground and be able to observe our progress as this state-of-the-art facility takes shape.”
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