Communities in the UK have a two-week window to participate in the statutory consultation for the proposed North Falls offshore wind farm in the southern North Sea. The consultation period, which began on June 30, 2023, will run until July 14, 2023.
North Falls is an expansion project intended to augment the existing 504MW Greater Gabbard Offshore Wind Farm. The proposed offshore array spans 150 square kilometers off the East Anglia coast, while the onshore grid connection is planned for Tendring, Essex.
A significant number of individuals, approximately 250, attended the statutory events organized to discuss the North Falls proposals. This consultation follows two previous rounds held in October 2021 and October 2022. The current session aims to present the progress made thus far and the updated proposals, with a particular focus on transmission infrastructure options.
To engage with communities and stakeholders, North Falls conducted five face-to-face events in Tendring, Essex, along with two webinars. These events, held in late May and early June, provided an opportunity for attendees to learn about the project's details and interact with members of the North Falls team.
For residents residing in coastal regions that may be visually affected by the wind farm, North Falls has developed an interactive 3D computer model. This model offers visualizations from 17 different coastal locations, enabling individuals to gain a better understanding of the potential visual impact.
The North Falls Offshore Wind Farm is a joint venture between SSE Renewables and RWE, with both companies owning an equal 50% stake in the project. In reference to the consultation, a representative from the North Falls team stated, “We are committed to engaging with the local communities and stakeholders to ensure their voices are heard, and the project is developed in a responsible and sustainable manner.”
This consultation period presents an opportunity for concerned individuals and organizations to contribute their feedback and opinions, which will be considered in the decision-making process for the proposed North Falls offshore wind farm.
