MMS Ship Repair in Alexandra Dock is preparing to build a series of vessels to serve the offshore wind farms off the east coast.

The company, which overlooks the site earmarked for a proposed Siemens wind turbine factory, will construct and run the vessels, which are designed to carry technicians and equipment to the wind turbines.

The multi-million-pound project will see as many as six vessels, up to 24 metres in length, built by MMS and could create up to 50 new jobs, including apprentice positions.

The first vessel will be ready for operation in about a year's time.

Rob Langton, managing director of MMS, said: "We started looking at this project 12 months ago.

"These vessels will have a unique design and will be much larger than most current boats – being purpose- built for the type of wind farms planned for the North Sea, which are further out from shore.

"The vessels will work much like a shuttle service and MMS will also crew the boats, so they will be operated by highly experienced local seaman."

Established in 1988, MMS currently overlooks the Green Port Hull development where Siemens is proposing to build a wind turbine factory.

If approved, the plant will assemble turbines for the Round Three wind farms, which are positioned within 12 hours' sailing time from the Port Of Hull.

Announced in 2010, they include Dogger Bank, Hornsea and Norfolk wind farms.

Mr Langton said: "The Green Port Hull project and Round Three wind farms are the inspiration for the offshore transfer vessels.

"We have the perfect position, geographically, and also the right experience and skills to build, operate and maintain these vessels as the offshore wind industry and supply chain grows around us in the Humber area."

The vessels, which will be catamarans, will feature a wave-piercing hull design, allowing them to remain stable, yet fast, in the North Sea's often choppy conditions.

The vessels will also have a unique turbine-transfer system to ensure they can safely disembark people and equipment upon reaching the offshore turbines.

With a crew of three, the boats will be capable of 25 knots and have first-class galley, toilet and shower facilities, together with crew's sleeping accommodation.