HUNDREDS of turbines could be created off the East Lothian coastline through a "world-leading" offshore wind farm.

SSE Renewables had previously revealed plans for Berwick Bank and Marr Bank offshore windfarms, with Berwick Bank, at that time, set to feature more than 240 turbines.

Now, the developer has combined the two projects under the name Berwick Bank.

Already, Berwick Bank proposals are at an advanced stage, with a planning application expected to go to the Scottish Government in the spring of next year.

Developers claim the windfarm, which would be located about 40 kilometres off the coast of East Lothian, would be capable of generating enough clean, renewable energy to power over five million homes, equivalent to all of Scotland’s households twice over, and avoiding eight million tonnes of carbon dioxide every year – similar to removing all of Scotland’s annual car emissions.

If consented and greenlit for construction, it could begin generating clean electricity in the second half of this decade and play a key role in helping Scotland meet its near-term net zero targets of generating up to 11GW new offshore wind by 2030.

A spokesman for the developers was unable to give an exact figure for the number of turbines proposed for the site to the north-east of Dunbar.

Already, Berwick Bank has secured a grid connection at Branxton, near Torness.

A second grid connection will be required for the project, with a location expected to be confirmed this year.

Alex Meredith, SSE Renewables’ Berwick Bank project director, said: “By combining the two project proposals into a super project we believe we can deliver Berwick Bank Wind Farm – one of the world’s largest offshore wind opportunities – more quickly.

“We’re proud of our track record of support and benefits that our projects bring to the Scottish and UK supply chains.

“With Berwick Bank our ambition is to utilise as many local, Scottish and UK based suppliers where possible throughout all stages of development, construction, and operation.

“That’s why we believe the size of Berwick Bank represents a huge opportunity to secure a multi-billion-pound investment in the Scottish and UK supply chain, bringing a wealth of opportunities for businesses of all sizes and disciplines.”

SSE Renewables has launched a new website at berwickbank.com where stakeholders, suppliers and members of the public including communities in East Lothian can find out more details about the project and get in touch easily with project team.

It has been developed following public consultation with local communities and key stakeholders earlier this year.