Wind of change for shipyard's future

Mar 3 2010 by Peter McCusker, The Journal

NORTH East law firm Swinburne & Jackson has completed negotiations for a US-based firm that will see a former Tyneside shipyard transformed into a manufacturing base for offshore wind turbine blades.

Swinburne & Jackson negotiated the lease for the site for US-based Clipper Windpower plc’s wholly-owned subsidiary Clipper Windpower Marine Limited.

The site is being leased from Shepherd Offshore, which will erect the factory to be used for blade production on Clipper’s behalf. Work is expected to start on site in April 2010.

This latest contract supports the North East’s goal of becoming a world leader in renewable energy. David Still, managing director for Clipper Windpower Marine Limited in the UK, said: “Through the oil and gas industries, the North East offers a wealth of skills transferable to the offshore wind sector, and it also has the space and capability to let developments like the one at Neptune shipyard to happen.

“Our latest round of investment demonstrates our commitment to delivering low-carbon technologies from this region and to supporting the local economy.”

Robert Lewis, consultant head of commercial property at Swinburne & Jackson, was involved in completing the early wind turbine leases in the country and led the legal team supported by head of company commercial Michael Wood-Williams and commercial property solicitor James Mackie.

He said: “This is a landmark deal for the region as it strives to lead the UK’s emerging renewable energy industry. In order to complete the transaction within the timescale, we were able to draw on significant expertise relating to windpower turbine leases and use this to the benefit of all the parties involved.

“It has been a pleasure to be involved in this deal, which is a real coup for the North East, creating a new round of much needed investment and employment over years to come.”

Mr Still added: “The team at Swinburne and Jackson worked tirelessly to negotiate the deal required – a deal which offers much potential for the future.”