This huge investment will see exciting new infrastructure project completed in the UK’s most easterly town.
The project will enhance Lowestoft’s port which will allow the town to develop its capabilities in the offshore energy sector.
Associated British Ports (ABP) announced the successful completion of the Lowestoft Eastern Energy Facility (LEEF) – the name of the project.
The facility has been handed over by contractors McLaughlin & Harvey which signals a huge development for Lowestoft, the UK’s most easterly port.
Demands for the offshore energy industry are growing with the LEEF aiming to support operations, management and construction requirements.
Lowestoft will be established as a central hub for offshore energy operations.
The LEEF will include 345m of quayside with three deep-water berths that can accommodate service operation vessels with a 7.5m draft.
It will also have infrastructure for six crew transfer vessels berths, each equipped with essential utilities such as water and power.
Its future-proofed design is aimed at integrating alternative fuels and shore power systems, reflecting commitment to sustainable operational practices.
As the demand for offshore wind energy continues to rise, facilities like LEEF will be essential for supporting the transition to greener energy sources in the UK and beyond.
ABP chief commercial officer and regional director, Wales and short sea ports Julian Walker said: “LEEF is a pivotal development for Lowestoft and will help us to meet the growing demands of the offshore energy industry.
“Its completion marks a major milestone in the port’s evolution as a hub for supporting this vital industry and in ABP’s goal of enabling the energy transition.
“LEEF will build on the vital role the Port of Lowestoft is already playing in offshore wind, as the base port for SSE’s Greater Gabbard and SPR’s EA ONE wind farms.”
Adrian Pollock, operations director, Civil Engineering from McLaughlin & Harvey operations director, civil engineering Adrian Pollock added: “We are proud to have delivered this comprehensive port infrastructure upgrade project.
“Our civil engineering expertise in marine works and collaboration with ABP allowed us to design and deliver a new facility that will help ABP achieve their ambition of offering three berths and heavy lift capabilities for the growing offshore wind and energy sectors at Lowestoft.”