Contractor GRAHAM has started work on the development of the new South Bank Quay at the Teeswork site.

The heavy-lift quay, along the banks of the River Tees, will provide direct access to the biggest wind farms across the world and help position the site as the UK's premier offshore wind hub.

The 1.2km quay will support GE Renewable Energy's mammoth wind turbine blade facility and play a critical role in the loading out and shipping of the 107m long blades for the Dogger Bank wind farm, the world's largest, located just 80 miles off the North East coast. The quay forms part of the wider 4.5m sq ft of advanced manufacturing and industrial space set to be built on 450acres of land next to the wharf.

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The work includes ripping out the dilapidated concrete and wooden jetties of the former Heavy Fuel Oil Farm and Tarmac. Two million tonnes of earth will be excavated create the deep-water berthing facility.

A huge pile-driving crane has been delivered to the site this week ahead of the installation of 300 6ft wide, 30metre-long tubular piles that will be pushed into the riverbank to create the 15-acre hardstanding and logistical space.

Paul Scott, GRAHAM Contract Director for the project said: "We are delighted to be starting the development of the new South Bank Quay – a project that will put the Teesworks site at the forefront of the offshore wind sector.

"As well as positioning the location as a premier offshore wind hub, our involvement in the project will deliver lasting impact on people living in the area.

"Transforming the site, we are committed to enhancing the fortunes of people in the area, supporting community organisations and giving local people the opportunity to play their part in such a major project."