THE proposed new Freeport East will “turbo-charge” the development of an offshore wind hub, according to those backing the bid.

Freeport East, a group made up of businesses and local authorities, has submitted a bid to the Government to assign freeport status to Harwich and Felixstowe which could bring thousands of jobs to the region.

Freeport status means areas will benefit from tax reliefs and simplified customs procedures, which could create 13,000 new jobs and 150 apprenticeships in the region.

It is hoped part of Harwich Port could see the creation of an offshore wind hub for operations and maintenance activities.

It would include a high-spec innovation and technology centre to attract innovative businesses, supporting manufacturing and engineering for offshore wind.

George Kieffer, chairman of the Freeport East project board, said: “The UK is the world’s largest market for the development and deployment of offshore wind and Freeport East sits right at its heart.

“The southern North Sea is the most densely populated area for offshore wind projects, home to 52 per cent of the UK’s entire operational fleet with more developments planned.

“Securing freeport status will help attract additional investment in this vital sector, helping to regenerate an area in need of levelling-up and delivering on Government targets for net-zero emissions.”

Harwich International Port has been involved in a number of offshore wind projects.

Clemence Cheng, executive director of the port’s owners, Hutchison Ports, said: “Harwich International has already supported the construction of Greater Gabbard, Galloper, London Array, Gunfleet Sands and Thanet offshore wind farms.

“Proximity to the physical market is a key consideration of any wind farm developer.

“Future development could deliver sheltered deep water with up to 1.4km of new quays for heavy lift installation vessels, barges and crew transfer vessels, amongst others.

“A new offshore wind hub at Harwich, built on over 270 acres of land adjacent to Harwich International Port, could provide dedicated installation, engineering and manufacturing facilities, as well as supporting office space and ancillary functions.”

Director of offshore development, Richard Sandford said: “We strongly believe Freeport East offers an exciting and compelling opportunity from which to increase the reach of Britain’s manufacturers and traders, benefitting from the excellent worldwide connectivity from Felixstowe and Harwich.”

The Government is expected to make its decision on freeport bids next month as part of a post-Brexit bid to boost trade.

Guy Middleton, general manager at Galloper Wind Farm, said the initiative could “bolster trade and encourage innovation” whilst delivering urgently needed regeneration and jobs.