Anglo-Dutch supermajor Shell has taken over operatorship of the Arran field in the UK Central North Sea following a final investment decision on its development.

Shell vice president for upstream in the UK Steve Phimister said: "As Shell marks 50 years of production in the UK North Sea, today’s announcement to invest in the Arran field and to assume operatorship is further proof of our continued commitment to the UK.

"By working closely with partners to maximise the economic recovery of the North Sea, we’ve been able to transform and revitalise Shell’s UK upstream business by focusing on competitive projects and operational excellence.

"Arran is an important addition to Shell’s portfolio as we seek to strategically grow our central North Sea production around the Shearwater hub."

Earlier on Wednesday, field partner RockRose Energy had confirmed that a final investment decision had been taken, which will see the drilling of four new development wells, with output to be transported via a newly installed subsea pipeline to Shell's nearby Shearwater platform.

At its peak, Arran is expected to produce about 100 million cubic feet of gas and 4000 barrels of condensate per day, or roughly 21,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day.

Arran is the fourth final investment decision announced by Shell in the UK North Sea so far this year, following on from Penguins in the northern North Sea, Alligin in the West of Shetland area and Fram in the central North Sea.

Wednesday’s announcement also confirmed earlier reports that Shell was widely expected to take over as operator following Dana’s exit.

RockRose also confirmed Wednesday it had completed the acquisition of a 20.43% interest in blocks 23/11a, 23/16b and 23/16c, which contain the Arran field, following the exit of previous operator Dana Petroleum. With the recent signing of an equity realignment letter, RockRose now holds a 30.43% interest in Arran.