The Orkney Islands Council, in northern Scotland, has awarded a contract to ACCIONA (70%) and local company Jones Bros (30%) for the initial study and potential development (“early contractor involvement”) of a multipurpose port facility in Scapa. The plan includes more than 600 meters of quay length and a depth ranging from 15 to 20 meters, as well as an access road connecting the A961 highway to the port.
During the project’s first phase, work will progress on the design of the quay, adjacent laydown area, dredging of the berthing zone, and earthworks, with the goal of establishing the budget for future construction—once approved, the works could exceed €200 million.
Located on the eastern shore of Scapa Flow—one of the largest natural deep-water harbors in northern Europe—the facility will feature deep-draft capabilities to accommodate the large vessels required for the development of the offshore wind industry, which is particularly significant in the region.
Additionally, the quay will offer an optimal location to become a leading hub for the construction and assembly of both fixed and floating wind turbine foundations. The infrastructure will also serve industries requiring deep waters and large berths.
The project’s innovative and environmentally conscious design will ensure it is built as sustainably as possible, including the maximum reuse of excavated material, which will be used to create the new maritime laydown area.
The solution developed by ACCIONA is based on prefabrication, minimizing activity in this environmentally sensitive area.
