Hull shipyard to supply local wind farms

MMS Ship Repair will both construct and run the boats, which will transfer technicians and equipment to the wind turbines. Capable of carrying 12 passengers, the vessels would be able to run a ‘shuttle service’ between the shore and the sites where hundreds of turbines are to be installed.

The multi-million pound project will see as many as six vessels, up to 24m in length, built by MMS, with the first ready for operation in approximately a year. MMS is based at Alexandra Dock, overlooking the Green Port Hull development, the site earmarked for a proposed Siemens wind turbine factory. If approved, the plant will assemble turbines for the Round Three, North Sea, wind farms, which are just 12 hours’ sailing time from the Humber.

MMS managing director Rob Langton said, “The Green Port Hull project and Round Three wind farms are the inspiration for the offshore transfer vessels.

“We have the perfect position geographically and also the right experience and skills to build, operate and maintain these vessels as the offshore wind industry and supply chain grows around us in the Humber area.”

Up to 50 new jobs could be created through the project, including apprentice positions. This will add to the company’s existing workforce of 70 people.

The vessels to be built by MMS will be catamarans and feature a wave-piercing hull design, allowing them to remain stable, yet fast, in the North Sea’s often choppy conditions. The vessels will also have a unique turbine-transfer system to ensure they can safely disembark people and equipment upon reaching the offshore turbines. With a crew of three, the boats will be capable of 25 knots and have first class galley, toilet and shower facilities, together with crew’s sleeping accommodation.

MMS Ship Repair provides a complete repair and refit service for ship owners. The shipyard was established in 1988 and about £5m has been invested in the site since the company’s inception. Facilities include two dry docks, substantial quay space, fully equipped workshops and a comprehensive range of machinery and equipment coupled with a directly employed, local workforce.