Osbit, a subsidiary of Venterra Group, has launched a new offshore wind manufacturing facility at the Port of Blyth, marking a significant step in the UK’s offshore wind sector. The 3,350-square metre facility, located at Wimbourne Quay, is four times larger than Osbit’s previous site and has already doubled the number of permanent jobs at the assembly facility, creating 33 skilled positions.
The expansion was made possible by a grant from the Business Growth Fund, supported by the Northeast Combined Authority, Gateshead Metropolitan Borough Council, and Sunderland City Council through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The new facility enhances collaboration across Venterra Group’s portfolio of offshore wind companies and reinforces the group’s role in supporting the UK supply chain and enabling the clean energy transition.
The Port of Blyth played a pivotal role in the development of Osbit’s expanded facility. The project involved converting one of the port’s warehouses at their Bates Clean Energy Terminal into an engineering workshop for Osbit, complete with new offices and overhead cranes. The facility is now fully operational and has already contributed to the delivery of first-of-kind wind farm installation tools, a floating offshore wind cable testing rig, and multiple offshore access gangways.
Steve Binney, Osbit director responsible for the site’s development, stated, “Opening this new facility is a huge milestone for Osbit. We are now able to deliver multiple projects simultaneously, under one roof, and situate ourselves in prime position to meet the increasing demands of the industry. The adjoining facility also provides a satellite office for our rapidly-expanding team, enabling us to grow with the sector.”
Alasdair Kerr, commercial director at the Port of Blyth, added, “We’re delighted to support Osbit’s continued growth through significant investment in a larger, purpose-built facility at our Bates Clean Energy Terminal. Relocating the company to this enhanced site not only enables greater operational capacity but also strengthens the long-standing partnership between Osbit and the Port. This collaboration is a great example of how we’re working with key tenants to drive innovation and growth in the offshore energy sector.”
This development underscores the growing momentum in the UK’s offshore wind sector and the increasing importance of strategic partnerships between private companies and public institutions. As the demand for clean energy solutions continues to rise, such investments and collaborations will be crucial in driving innovation, creating jobs, and supporting the UK’s clean energy transition. The new facility not only enhances Osbit’s operational capabilities but also strengthens the broader offshore wind supply chain, positioning the UK as a leader in the global offshore wind market.