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Morecambe CPP1

Morecambe CPP1 (Central Processing Platform 1) is the core processing installation within the Morecambe South Central Processing Complex in the East Irish Sea. Commissioned in the 1980s, it processes gas and condensate from multiple satellite platforms. CPP1 is bridge-linked to AP1 (accommodation) and DP1 (drilling), functioning as the hub for export and control.

Operator: Spirit

Status: Operational

Morecambe CPP1 platform photo

Image Source: Spirit. (All rights belong to the original owner.)

Production: Gas

Operations start: 1985

Water depth: 32 m

Country: UK

Block: 110/3

Type: Fixed steel jacket

Field

The South Morecambe gas field lies approximately 30 km west of Blackpool in UKCS Blocks 110/2a, 110/3a, and 110/8a. It produces gas with condensate from Permian-Triassic reservoir sands. Developed with several fixed jacket platforms, the field has provided long-term gas supplies into the UK's National Transmission System via onshore processing terminals.

Facilities

CPP1 is the principal hydrocarbon processing platform in the Morecambe South hub. It receives well fluids via pipelines and risers from satellite platforms (DP3, DP4, DP6, DP8) and connected wells. Primary processing functions include 3-phase separation to isolate gas, condensate, and water; dehydration to meet export quality; and compression to maintain export pipeline pressure. Condensate is stabilized and metered for export. Gas is exported through a dedicated pipeline system to the Barrow/Rampside gas terminals for final processing and introduction to the UK gas network. The platform supports gas compression trains, dehydration units (glycol/hydrocarbon dew point control), utility modules (power generation, HVAC, water treatment), and chemical dosing systems for corrosion/inhibition. CPP1 also houses the central control room overseeing field operations and subsea controls. Structural integration with AP1 and DP1 via bridge connections allows consolidated access for personnel and shared utilities, maximizing operational efficiency and safety. Emergency shutdown systems, lifeboats, firewater networks, and redundant power systems align with offshore regulatory requirements.

Morecambe CPP1 layout
Image Source: Spirit. (All rights belong to the original owner.)

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