Scottish Enterprise will not proceed with the development of its marine energy park at the former Cockenzie Power Station, located on the East coast of Scotland, the company said on its website.
Scottish Enterprise’s Cockenzie “Energy Hub” would have included a deployment quay for offshore renewables, preparation of development plots to accommodate a range of uses including manufacture of offshore wind components and associated site servicing.
The company explained: “Since we started exploring the potential development at Cockenzie, detail around the scale, timing and location of offshore wind projects has changed and become clearer.
“As a result we believe that that time isn’t right to develop a marine energy park at Cockenzie, with industry requirements being met through other sites in Scotland.”
Initial feasibility study (including the preparation of a feasibility study and outline development framework), ornithological survey and community consultation have already been carried out.
“We continue to believe that the site is strategically important and we are keen to work with East Lothian Council, the site owner and all stakeholders to explore alternative uses for the site that support job creation and sustainable economic growth at the local and national level,” Scottish Enterprise said.
The company added that Cockenzie was one of a number of locations identified as suitable for the offshore wind industry and that this decision will not affect its other offshore wind plans in Scotland.
Image: Cockenzie Energy Park