Scapa

Location

The Scapa Deep Water Quay (SDWQ) is proposed to be located on the Orkney mainland coast, approximately 4 kilometers south of Scapa Pier, near the Burn of Deepdale in Scapa Flow.

Purpose and Uses

The primary purpose of the Scapa Deep Water Quay is to support multiple industrial activities, particularly:

• The construction, assembly, and maintenance of offshore wind turbines.
• The relocation of pilot and tugboat operations currently based at Scapa Pier.
• The potential development of a storage and supply hub for future marine fuels, aligning with the Islands Deal project.

Design and Construction

• Phase 1:

  • Installation of an access road from the A961 to the site.
  • Excavation and reclamation of the shore to form a 12-hectare laydown area.
  • Creation of a 450-meter quay with a width of approximately 46 meters.
  • Dredging to achieve a water depth of -15 meters CD.

• Phase 2:

  • Additional excavation and reclamation to form a further 6-hectare laydown area to the south.
  • Extension of the quay by 275 meters to the south.
  • Extension of the bunds along the new laydown area.

• Phase 3:

  • Dredging on the southern side of the quay extension to create a berthing pocket with a water depth of -20 meters CD.

Environmental Impact Assessment

The project has undergone an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) coordinated by EnviroCentre Ltd, with input from technical co-consultants. The EIA report includes detailed descriptions of the proposed development, potential environmental effects, alternative options, and proposed mitigation measures.

Collaboration and Support

The design and development of the Scapa Deep Water Quay have been undertaken in close cooperation with industry leaders and companies involved in offshore wind turbine development. There are over 10 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) signed with major offshore wind turbine developers and financial institutions, indicating strong industry support.

Economic and Strategic Significance

The Scapa Deep Water Quay is part of the broader Orkney Future Ports initiative, which aims to establish the Orkney Islands as a world-leading innovation center for the renewables sector. The project is expected to contribute significantly to the local and national economy, supporting the UK's ambitions in the global renewables industry and helping to meet net-zero targets.

Infrastructure and Natural Resources

Scapa Flow, where the quay will be located, is one of the deepest natural harbors in the world, providing a unique and advantageous location for maritime activities. The construction of the quay will utilize local materials as much as possible, with only large rock armor stone needing to be imported from outside Orkney.