SHERINGHAM SHOAL

A formal celebration on Friday 19th April 2013 marked Scira Offshore Energy's move from the 'Prepare for Operations' stage of the Sheringham Shoal Wind Farm to its long term 'Operation and Maintenance' stage. Norman Lamb, the MP for North Norfolk and Minister of State at the Department of Health, formally opened Wind Farm Place, the purpose-built Operation and Maintenance base, which Scira moved into in February.

The formal proceedings were followed by a celebration lunch for guests and employees in the new building, during which catering students from Alderman Peel High School in Wells-next-the-Sea served canapés and their music students performed for the guests. The buffet was prepared by Walsingham Farm Shops, and a little gift for all guests and employees was sourced from the Chocolate Deli in Walsingham.

Constructed by local firm, Mansell Construction of Swaffham, Wind Farm Place is located three miles south of Wells-next-the-Sea in North Norfolk. It is a low energy consumption building - low energy lighting, highly insulated walls, and a 'green' roof to reduce rainwater run-off. With office accommodation and warehousing, Wind Farm Place now houses Scira's management and administration staff and serves as the base for the wind turbine technicians working on the maintenance of the offshore wind farm on a daily basis.

Einar Strømsvåg , Scira's General Manager said: "It was good that so many people who have played an active part in the development of the Sheringham Shoal Offshore Wind Farm, and the infrastructure which will now support its operation and maintenance, could join us for this celebration. Now that the wind farm is fully operational, the local team is delighted to have moved into its new, purpose-built home. It will be an excellent base for our activities for many years to come."