Local councillors have voiced concerns that Scarborough and Whitby harbours may miss out on lucrative opportunities from the burgeoning offshore wind industry.
They argue that urgent action is needed to attract investment and develop the necessary infrastructure to accommodate the specialised vessels and equipment needed for offshore wind farm construction and maintenance.
Councillor Derek Bastiman, a former leader of the now defunct Scarborough Borough Council, stressed the urgency of the situation, stating that "the offshore renewable sector is not a new opportunity" and that Scarborough Borough Council had been engaging with industry operators for years. He expressed frustration with the perceived lack of progress, citing a meeting with an operator a year ago that seemingly yielded no tangible results.
Councillor Bastiman also highlighted that operators are actively seeking facilities in the area and are being met with silence from North Yorkshire Council, leading to concerns that these potential investors will take their business elsewhere. He warned that
"if we don't do something sooner rather than later... the boats the boats and vessels and such like things will have been the opportunity will have been missed".
Whitby Councillor, Phil Trumper, echoed the sentiments, emphasising the "massive" potential benefits for both harbours and the wider region. He urged the council to "get on board" with the industry's needs, cautioning that "we are going to miss out" on a significant economic opportunity if swift action is not taken.
North Yorkshire Council’s Head of Harbours and Coastal Infrastructure, Chris Bourne, has acknowledged the importance of attracting the offshore renewables market and highlighted the need for investment in harbour facilities to meet the specific requirements of operators.
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