Here's a breakdown of the Celtic Freeport's key sites and their boundaries:
1. Port of Milford Haven:
Tax Site Boundaries: The designated tax site within Milford Haven encompasses approximately 700 hectares.
It includes Pembroke Dock, the South Hook LNG terminal, and areas around the existing port facilities.
You can find a detailed map of the Milford Haven tax site boundaries on the UK government's website: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/maps-of-celtic-freeport-tax-sites
Focus Areas:
Pembroke Dock: This area is poised to become a major hub for floating offshore wind (FLOW) component manufacturing, assembly, and deployment. It has deep water access and available land for large-scale industrial development.
South Hook LNG Terminal: This existing terminal could be repurposed or expanded to support the production and export of hydrogen.
Other Port Areas: The Freeport will leverage existing port infrastructure to facilitate trade and support the development of sustainable fuels and carbon capture technologies.
2. Port Talbot:
Tax Site Boundaries: The Port Talbot tax site covers around 150 hectares.
It includes areas around the existing port, industrial estates, and land with potential for redevelopment.
Focus Areas:
Port Facilities: The existing port will be upgraded to handle increased cargo traffic related to FLOW and other industries.
Industrial Estates: These areas will support manufacturing and logistics operations, particularly those related to the renewable energy supply chain.
Green Steel Potential: There's potential for the Freeport to support the development of green steel production in Port Talbot, leveraging renewable energy sources and innovative technologies.
3. Connecting Corridor:
It's important to note that the Celtic Freeport also includes a connecting corridor between Milford Haven and Port Talbot.
This corridor is not a tax site itself but falls within the Freeport's outer boundary.
It's intended to facilitate the movement of goods and materials between the two main sites and support integrated development across the region.
Overall Geographic Scope:
The Celtic Freeport's outer boundary encompasses a large area of South West Wales, including the two main tax sites and the connecting corridor.
The total area within the outer boundary is approximately 45km. This provides ample space for future expansion and the development of new industrial clusters.
Scale of the Project:
While precise figures are still evolving, the Celtic Freeport represents a substantial investment:
- Estimated Investment: Over £1 billion is expected to be invested in the Freeport, with funding from both public and private sources.
- Job Creation: The Freeport is projected to create over 16,000 jobs across various sectors, with a significant portion in the renewable energy industry.
- Economic Impact: Estimates suggest the Freeport could contribute billions of pounds to the Welsh economy over the coming decades.
Renewable Energy Focus:
The Celtic Freeport has a strong emphasis on renewable energy, particularly floating offshore wind. The deep-water ports and available land make it ideal for manufacturing, assembling, and deploying large-scale FLOW components. This focus is expected to position Wales as a leader in this growing sector.
The Celtic Freeport is expected to generate a wide range of employment opportunities across various sectors. Here's a breakdown of some of the key careers and the skills that will be in demand:
1. Renewable Energy:
- Floating Offshore Wind (FLOW): This is a major focus area for the Celtic Freeport. Expect to see roles in:
- Turbine Manufacturing and Assembly: Engineers, technicians, welders, fabricators, electricians, and mechanics will be needed to manufacture and assemble the massive components of floating wind turbines.
- Installation and Maintenance: Specialized roles in offshore installation, vessel operation, subsea engineering, and turbine maintenance will be crucial.
- Project Management and Engineering: Project managers, engineers (civil, structural, electrical, mechanical), and environmental specialists will oversee the development and operation of FLOW projects.
- Hydrogen Production and Distribution: The Freeport aims to become a hub for green hydrogen production. This will create jobs in:
- Electrolysis and Hydrogen Production: Chemical engineers, process technicians, and plant operators will be involved in producing hydrogen from renewable energy sources.
- Storage and Transportation: Engineers and technicians specializing in hydrogen storage, transportation, and infrastructure development will be needed.
- Other Renewable Energy Technologies: The Freeport will also support the development of other renewable energy technologies, such as wave and tidal energy, creating further specialized roles in these areas.
2. Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering:
- Supply Chain and Logistics: The Freeport will require a robust supply chain and logistics network to support the manufacturing and export of goods. This will create opportunities in:
- Logistics and Supply Chain Management: Logistics coordinators, supply chain analysts, and transportation specialists will be needed to optimize the flow of goods.
- Advanced Manufacturing: Skilled technicians, machinists, and operators will be required in various manufacturing processes related to renewable energy components and other industrial goods.
3. Construction and Infrastructure:
- Port Infrastructure: The Freeport will involve significant upgrades to port facilities, creating jobs in:
- Civil Engineering: Civil engineers, construction managers, and skilled tradespeople will be needed for the construction of new port infrastructure, such as quays, terminals, and breakwaters.
- Marine Engineering: Specialists in marine construction, dredging, and coastal engineering will also be required.
- Supporting Infrastructure: The development of the Freeport will require supporting infrastructure, such as roads, rail links, and energy infrastructure, creating further construction and engineering jobs.
4. Digital and Technology:
- Data Analysis and AI: The Freeport will generate large amounts of data related to operations, logistics, and environmental monitoring. This will create demand for:
- Data Scientists and Analysts: These professionals will analyze data to optimize operations, improve efficiency, and support decision-making.
- AI and Machine Learning Specialists: Experts in artificial intelligence and machine learning will develop and implement solutions for automation, predictive maintenance, and other applications.
- Cybersecurity: Protecting critical infrastructure and data will be crucial, leading to jobs in cybersecurity analysis, network security, and information security management.
5. Professional and Business Services:
- Finance and Accounting: Financial analysts, accountants, and tax specialists will be needed to manage the financial aspects of the Freeport's operations.
- Legal Services: Lawyers specializing in international trade, maritime law, and environmental regulations will be in demand.
- Business Development and Marketing: Professionals with skills in business development, marketing, and international trade will be needed to attract investment and promote the Freeport's offerings.
New Skills Needed:
In addition to traditional skills in engineering, manufacturing, and construction, the Celtic Freeport will require employees with new and emerging skills, including:
- Digital Skills: Data analysis, programming, cybersecurity, and digital literacy will be essential across many roles.
- Green Skills: Expertise in renewable energy technologies, sustainability, and environmental management will be highly valued.
- Automation and Robotics: As automation increases, skills in robotics, automation engineering, and mechatronics will be in demand.
- Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: The ability to analyze complex situations, solve problems, and adapt to changing technologies will be crucial.
- Communication and Collaboration: Strong communication and collaboration skills will be essential in a dynamic and multi-disciplinary environment.
The Celtic Freeport presents a unique opportunity for individuals with both traditional and emerging skills to contribute to a major economic development project and be part of the growing green economy.