The Port of Blyth has officially launched a £1m wind turbine training facility in north-east England, aimed at providing training opportunities to the renewables industry.
The centre includes a full sized, specially modified turbine for practical training alongside a dedicated training centre with modern classrooms and facilities.
The turbine features a duplicate nacelle unit designed for safe training at height with the original nacelle located at ground level for technical training.
Port of Blyth chief executive Martin Lawlor (pictured, right) said: “We’re delighted to officially launch the Wind Turbine Training Facility with the support of the sizeable supply chain located at the Port and leading players in the renewables sector in the North East in attendance.
“Our commitment to improving the prospects of local people entering the offshore energy sector has been significant, be it through our active STEM hub, our leading schools and university partnerships or our award-winning post 16 subsea and renewables diploma, and we know that this training facility will be another key tool for both the community and the industry.”
Northumberland County Council leader Glen Sanderson (pictured, left) said: “With many major offshore wind related projects being completed at the Port and the river being home to the world leading Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult, it is safe to say that the renewables sector is playing a huge role in both the growth and reputation of the Port of Blyth and indeed the resurgence of the town itself.
“I’m looking forward to the wind technicians of the future based locally taking their first steps into the industry via this superb facility.”