Following the opening of the Welding and Pipefitting Hub in September 2024, the next stage of the CATCH expansion programme has been granted planning permission. The new development includes an Industrial Decarbonisation Centre and a new build Renewable Energy Training Centre, both set to officially open in early 2026. Supported by investment from partners Viking CCS members Phillips 66 Limited, Harbour Energy, Drax Group and Associated British Ports (ABP), plus Air Products and Uniper, alongside funding from the Humber Freeport.

These new facilities will further strengthen CATCH’s position as a leading hub for skills training and development in the region. As industries move towards the clean power mission these centres will equip the current and future workforce with the skills required for the evolving sector.

David Talbot, CEO of CATCH said, “These developments mark the next stage in our plans to train 1000 apprentices per year by 2030. Partnership is what makes CATCH different, we leverage knowledge gained from our members and stakeholders, to find out exactly what industry really needs now and in the future. By collaborating across our skills eco-system, from our outreach and engagement work to supporting the community to the upskilling of adults – we can contextualise and provide up to date training across the sector. We are immensely grateful for the ongoing support of our investors in making this vision a reality.”

The Renewable Energy Training Centre will offer hands-on training for technicians and operators, with new purpose built workshops, classroom space and common areas. While the Industrial Decarbonisation Centre, will feature a lecture theatre, inward investment suite, AR/VR capability as well as upgraded reception, office space and breakout areas for networking.

Simon Green, CEO of Humber Freeport, said:

“To decarbonise the Humber’s industrial cluster and transition to a net zero economy, we need the right people with the right skills and expertise.

“Facilities like CATCH are absolutely vital to equip our future workforce with the capabilities and the confidence to meet the needs of a rapidly evolving and growing green skills sector.

“The strength of CATCH’s proposition is underlined by the breadth of cross-sector support and funding from industry and partners. Through the Freeport’s Seed Capital Fund, we were delighted to play our part in the next exciting chapter of CATCH’s story.

“As the Humber accelerates towards low carbon technologies and innovation, CATCH will serve as a centre of excellence for clean energy, connecting industry with a pool of highly-skilled people ready to drive sustainable, green economic growth.”

Paul Fursey, Lead Executive UK & General Manager, Humber Refinery at Phillips 66 Limited said:

“The establishment of the Industrial Decarbonisation Centre and the Renewable Energy Training Centre at CATCH represents a pivotal step forward in enhancing skills development in the Humber region.

“Our recent investment in the training centre not only reflects our ongoing collaboration with local industry to support future growth and innovation but also fortifies the region’s economic resilience as we transition to a lower carbon economy”

Richard Gwilliam, Chair of the Humber Energy Board and UK BECCS Programme Director at Drax Group, said:

“The Humber is the UK’s biggest decarbonisation opportunity and CATCH has a critical role to play in developing the pipeline of talent our region needs to deliver on our green growth ambitions.

“We’re pleased to see that CATCH’s Industrial Decarbonisation Centre and Renewable Energy Training Centre have secured planning permission and are moving closer to construction. These facilities will equip current and future workers with in-demand skills that can lead to long-term careers in the Humber and globally.”

For more information about the upcoming expansion or to inquire about training opportunities, please contact CATCH directly at – info@catchuk.org