World-class marine centre receives funding

A centre for marine energy research and development has been allocated funds of £650,000 by the Port of Milford Haven.

The project has been given the go ahead by the Port of Milford Haven’s Board of Directors.

The Port allocated £650,000 to kick start dockyard improvements that will form part of Pembroke Dock Marine.

The £76m Swansea Bay City Deal project which will see the Port of Milford Haven partner with Marine Energy Wales, ORE Catapult and Wave Hub to develop a world-class centre for marine energy research and development, fabrication, testing and deployment, in Pembrokeshire.

The funding will maintain momentum on the planning and consenting work and will help ensure building work can commence quickly once the City Deal business plan has been signed off.

“By releasing this funding, the Port is demonstrating its confidence in the project,” said chief executive Alec Don.

“The funding creates vital impetus for Pembroke Port and Pembroke Dock Marine, allowing us to tackle extensive planning legwork now, so that we can hit the road running when the full City Deal funding comes through.

“Pembrokeshire’s capacity to capitalise on its unique location and supply chain, next to one of the Country’s richest areas for marine renewable energy, is limited only by its intent to put in place the infrastructure, partnerships and funding necessary.

“The Port is only one of the partners involved in the project, of course, accounting for 37% of the total package, but we are stating, in the clearest terms possible, that we are committed to making Pembroke Dock Marine a world-leading centre in this fast-growing sector,” added Mr Don.

“We look forward to working with our partners to make this project a success.”

The Port of Milford Haven’s Engineering Director Tim Bownes, who is heading up the Pembroke Port element of the project, said there will be a comprehensive period of consultation, during which the views of stakeholders, including the general public, will be sought.

“This is an exciting project that could transform the area and it will bring opportunities for local people and businesses,” said Mr Bownes.

Tim continued: “We will be asking all interested parties to come forward if they have any questions about the project. Our door will be open. There will also be formal consultations taking place in due course.”