By Kari Williamson

Joint applications are being made for the demolition of existing buildings at Alexandra Dock and the development of a factory, office and amenity facilities and a helicopter landing site, as well as areas for the storage, handling, assembly, and testing of wind turbine components.

Dan McGrail, Siemens Project Manager, says: "We are very pleased that another significant milestone in the project has been achieved, and we look forward to discussing plans further with the local community during the consultation process. Both Siemens and ABP would like to thank Hull City Council and the local community for helping us reach today’s milestone and for their support."

If all goes to plan, the wind turbine facility will be operation in 2014.

RenewableUK has welcomed the news, saying the plans to build a wind turbine factory at Alexandra Dock could create 700 direct jobs, and many more in the supply chain, when it opens within the next three years.

Siemens' announcement follows news that the wind turbine tower manufacturer Mabey Bridge in Chepstow is ramping up production to operate 24 hours a day to meet growing demand. The company is creating 45 new jobs, as well as transferring 50 workers from its bridge-building operation, to join the 102 staff already on site, almost doubling the workforce.

Maria McCaffery, RenewableUK’s Chief Executive, says: “The wind industry is already employing more than 10,000 people full time – that’s set to rise to nearly 90,000 over the next 10 years, not only in the industry itself but also in the supply chain, with components manufacturers supplying this fast-growing sector. That pattern is set to continue, even though other sectors are struggling in the current economic climate. Thousands of the engineers, technicians and designers of the future will find employment in the wind industry, helping us to build the low-carbon economy this country needs and deserves.”