Offshore engineering giant Subsea 7 said yesterday it was investing more than £5.5million in refurbishing its pipeline bundle fabrication site near Wick in Caithness.
Established in 1978, the facility covers about 74 acres and has a sheltered bay, from which the Norwegian firm’s pipeline bundles are launched. Subsea 7 said refurbishment of the site would be carried out in two phases under plans which include an extension to the main fabrication shop and new office and welfare complex.
The first phase got under way in 2012 and is now complete, while the second phase is scheduled for completion in 2014.
Willie Watt, general manager at the facility, said: “The increasing success of our bundle technology has been the main driver for this extensive refurbishment programme.
“Subsea 7 is experiencing its busiest ever period for bundle design and installation, with eight installed in 2011/12 and a further eight confirmed for the period to Q2 2015.
“The company’s significant investment in equipment and facilities will support the high activity we are now experiencing as a consequence of embracing the benefits of bundle technology for rejuvenating and extending existing facilities or new developments.”
There are currently 130 people employed at the fabrication site, but the number rises to more than 150 around the time of a bundle launch.
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