Scores of jobs in pipeline as ground work begins for Scottish wind farm that will power 1.3 million homes

Montrose was selected by energy firm SSE Renewables last October as the preferred location for its operations and maintenance base for the 114-turbine development, bringing investment and jobs to the local area for the 25-year life of the project.

Tom Hutchison, chief executive of Montrose Port Authority, said: “This is a significant milestone for Montrose.

“The 25-year commitment from Seagreen will ensure the ongoing investment and redevelopment of our existing facilities at the port in line with our remit as a ‘trust port’.

“It also demonstrates our consistently flexible approach and long-term diversification strategy, as well as offering an outstanding opportunity for the local supply network.”

The Seagreen project is located some 27 kilometres off the coast of Angus. The £3 billion joint venture between SSE Renewables and Total will be Scotland’s single largest source of renewable energy, with sufficient energy to power 1.3 million homes.

The wind farm will also support a £1.8 million community benefit fund which will be divided between six community councils.

Located at the port’s South Quay, the new base will include a two-storey operations building, repurposed warehouse, 50-metre communications mast and a pontoon for crew transfer vessels travelling to the Seagreen site.

Andy Kay from SSE Renewables said: “This is a landmark moment for our base at Montrose port and for all the team involved in delivering the Seagreen offshore wind project.

“SSE Renewables is committed to supporting the local economy so this is good news for all the businesses in Montrose and Angus who will benefit from the construction and ultimately, the opening of the base in a few years’ time.”

Dave Doogan, MP for Angus, added: “This latest milestone in the Seagreen project is very positive and brings to life the extraordinary opportunity for Angus to get in at the front end of the massive offshore wind industry.”

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