Implications for Norfolk/Suffolk

The future for Norfolk/Suffolk is wind

A new industry is set to blow across the region bringing with it jobs, investment and environmental benefits. With good wind speeds, relatively low environmental impacts, working ports at Lowestoft and Yarmouth and a skilled and experienced marine workforce from the oil and gas and fishing industries it is no wonder that this region has been earmarked as the largest offshore wind farm development site in the UK.

The East of England Development Agency, Renewables East, the East of England Energy Group and Suffolk County Council, along with other bodies, offer integrated and holistic support to the offshore wind farm industry. Developers have already arrived at Scroby Sands, off Yarmouth, and there are many more plans for development, including sites off Cromer and at Sheringham Shoal.

Located between two strategic development areas – the Greater Wash and Thames Estuary – this new industry could bring £20 billion investment to the Eastern region and create 60,000 jobs by 2020.

The areas of Yarmouth and Lowestoft are likely to experience major regeneration as Lowestoft becomes the regional, if not national, focal point for the industry with a £5 million Centre of Excellence.

Offshore wind farms may not be visible from land, but the effects of the industry are likely to be seen across the region as Norfolk/Suffolk experiences a boost from this new offshore wind energy economy.

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