RWE and SSE Renewables, in collaboration, have commenced the statutory consultation phase for the North Falls Offshore Wind Farm, unveiling their proposals for public input.
The North Falls project, an expansion of the existing 504MW Greater Gabbard Offshore Wind Farm, is set to occupy a sprawling offshore array area spanning 150 square kilometers, situated approximately 20 kilometers off the East Anglia coast. The onshore grid connection is earmarked for Tendring, Essex, with underground cables facilitating the transmission of power from the landfall near Frinton-on-Sea, covering a distance of roughly 24 kilometers to a newly established onshore substation.
In this third and pivotal round of consultation, the project team actively seeks feedback from local communities and the wider public regarding their project proposals, particularly focusing on the preliminary environmental information report (PEIR). The report encompasses the initial findings derived from a comprehensive three-year-long environmental impact assessment undertaken by the project team. This diligent work entailed onshore and offshore surveys, in-depth desk-based research, and extensive consultation with stakeholders to identify potential environmental and community impacts stemming from the project, along with proposed mitigation measures to address these concerns.
Andy Paine, the Project Director for North Falls, emphasized that the current proposals presented are not the final application but rather an opportunity for local communities and other stakeholders to influence the application's specific details before its submission to the Planning Inspectorate.
Following the previous two consultations held in October 2021 and October 2022, the ongoing consultation unveils updated project proposals, with a notable focus on the three options for transmission infrastructure. To ensure widespread accessibility, an online consultation portal has been established, accompanied by two webinars, along with the opportunity to engage with the project team during five events in Essex scheduled for early June. These events will be held in Great Bromley, Tendring, Frinton-on-Sea, Thorpe-le-Soken, and Ardleigh.
Recognizing the potential impact on coastal regions in terms of visual aesthetics, North Falls has developed an interactive 3D computer model, offering views from 17 distinct coastal locations. This model enables individuals to gain an immersive understanding of how the wind farm might appear from various vantage points.
The consultation period will remain open until Friday, July 14, 2023, enabling stakeholders to contribute their insights and opinions on the North Falls Offshore Wind Farm project.
