Main contractor appointed for steel-framed turbine factory

Siemens has appointed VolkerFitzpatrick to build its £310M wind turbine factory in Hull.

Construction of the 40,000m² facility will begin next month (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.

The facility will accommodate the manufacture of 75m long turbine blades and the assembly, maintenance, storage and distribution of wind turbine components within a number of steel-framed buildings. The contract also involves the construction of office accommodation and welfare facilities.

Shaun Cray, Siemens’ General Manager, Real Estate and Construction for the Hull project, said VolkerFitzpatrick had been chosen from an exceptionally strong shortlist of contractors.

He said: “VolkerFitzpatrick presented the most competitive and robust bid, with strong environmental and health and safety processes, a highly experienced project team and track record to deliver the project.”

VolkerFitzpatrick 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.”

NSC understands that a steelwork contractor has yet to be appointed for the project.