VolkerFitzpatrick has been appointed by Siemens to build its wind turbine blade factory in Hull.

The company stated VolkerFitzpatrick's bid was the most 'competitive and robust' for development of the 40,000 sq m facility.

Siemens is investing £310 million in the Hull project along with partner Associated British Ports (ABP), employing around 1,000 people on the site.

The factory will accommodate the manufacture of 75m turbine blades and the assembly, maintenance, storage and distribution of wind turbine components.

The contract also involves the development of office accommodation and welfare facilities.

Construction will begin in 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.

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Approximately 200 jobs will be created during development.

Shaun Crey, Siemens' General Manager, Real Estate and Construction, for the Hull project, 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.

"A further key factor in VolkerFitzpatrick’s selection is their commitment to a significant proportion of local and regional suppliers and sub-contractors, with the entire supply chain within the UK.

"In addition, they have a strong record of performance with Siemens, having delivered rail depot projects for us in the UK. We can trust them to deliver a facility of the highest quality on time and on budget."

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."

(LM)