Wind-turbine producer Vestas has pulled out of a planned offshore wind plant at the port of Sheerness.
The Danish manufacturer said that the planned deal will not go ahead due to a lack of orders for Vestas turbines.
Peel Ports chief executive Mark Whitworth said he was “extremely disappointed” but a spokesman for the group dismissed industry-insider claims the Vestas' withdrawal would be “a disaster” for Sheerness, especially since Capespan moved its UK headquarters away in September 2011.
“It’s very much business as usual and Port of Sheerness continues to be a very successful and profitable part of the Peel Ports business,” said the spokesman. “During the option period we’ve retained our customer base… Capespan’s departure was expected but all our other customers remain in automotive, fresh produce and other commodity sectors. Fruit continues to be an important part of the heritage operation.
"We continue to be committed to the heritage operation, but will continue to seek offshore renewables opportunities. We are in constant dialogue with fresh produce customers and intend to grow our heritage business.”
Meanwhile, Vestas said it will “remain active” in both offshore and onshore wind industries in the UK, chief sales officer Juan Araluce said in a statement. But there is no getting a way from the fact the company’s withdrawal from its option on Sheerness is a blow to the local economy on the Isle of Sheppey, where it would have created some 2,000 jobs and local authorities have said they are keen to find another renewable-energy business to willing to take up the option as all the necessary planning consents are in place.
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