A SPANISH windfarm company is eyeing Harwich as a possible site for a 150million Euro turbine factory.

Gamesa wants to build a manufacturing plant specialising in blade production and windmill assembly that will create more than 600 jobs.

Harwich is being considered along with the Humber and Tyneside. The company is in the final stages of selecting the winning location from the three ports, with a decision due by June.

Susana Sanjuan Merinero, Gamesa’s spokesman, said: “We are analysing the locations for an offshore factory in England but we have not taken a final decision. We have a shortlist and Harwich, Humber and Tyneside have the same possibilities.”

Tendring Council is heading up a bid to set up a £5million windfarm training and business centre in Harwich.

Bernard Jenkin, MP for Harwich and North East Essex, recently held a meeting to discuss how making Harwich a “windport” can benefit the town and create jobs.

He said he welcomed commercial companies who are interested in investing in the town. He said: “I am delighted serious players, like Gamesa, are taking a firm interest in the possibility of investing in Harwich.

“Last month’s Harwich windport summit shows we are ready to welcome them and I am sure there are other potential investors.”

Gamesa has said it is opening an offshore wind business headquarters in London as it looks to capitalise on the UK’s interest in wind energy. The Spanish company has 30 production facilities and more than 7,000 employees worldwide.