ScottishPower Renewables has awarded the design and build contract for its new £9 million offshore wind operations base in Lowestoft to regional construction company R G Carter, taking its investment in the East Anglia supply chain beyond £100 million.
The announcement comes as demolition begins at the former RJ Pryce site on Trinity Road, where the new facility will be developed to support the company’s offshore wind operations. Ipswich-based Tru Demolition is carrying out the initial clearance works, with R G Carter scheduled to begin construction in 2027.
The purpose-built facility will cover almost 6,000m² and include a three-storey building with office and administration space, a control room, a Marine Coordination Centre and a dedicated warehouse. Designed to accommodate approximately 100 people, the new base is expected to create additional employment opportunities for the local area. It will complement ScottishPower Renewables’ existing East Anglia ONE operations facility in Lowestoft, which will remain operational under its current 30-year lease with Associated British Ports.
Supporting the region’s offshore wind industry
The contract award represents another development in ScottishPower Renewables’ investment in the East of England, where more than 100 regional and local businesses are involved in its supply chain. R G Carter has operated across the region for more than a century and has delivered renewable energy projects for over 20 years. The construction company is also supporting more than 60 apprentices as part of its investment in developing regional skills.
Alex Mackay, speaking for R G Carter, welcomed the opportunity to contribute to the project and support local employment and skills development. “Lowestoft and the wider East Anglia region are the home and heart of our offshore wind operations in the UK,” said Ross Ovens, ScottishPower Renewables’ Managing Director for Offshore.
Ovens highlighted the company’s continued investment in local suppliers and its ambition to create lasting economic opportunities alongside the development and operation of renewable energy infrastructure. Lowestoft MP Jess Asato also welcomed the announcement, identifying the potential for skilled employment, training opportunities and additional activity for town centre businesses.
With demolition now underway and the construction contract awarded, the project marks a further step in developing the infrastructure needed to support ScottishPower Renewables’ offshore wind operations in the region. The new facility is expected to reinforce Lowestoft’s role as a centre for offshore wind operations while providing further opportunities for local businesses and the regional workforce.
