Fight against Triton Knoll onshore development continues

The county council has submitted its formal response to the public inquiry into plans to develop the onshore infrastructure needed for the Triton Knoll offshore wind farm.

Each of these projects is likely to have significant impact on the local landscape and the local tourism industry. Combined, the consequences could be disastrous for the community.Councillor Colin Davie

In its report, the authority has again raised concerns about the combined impact of this development and that for the Viking Link, a project to connect electricity from Denmark to the East Coast through undersea cables.

It argues that the developments would have adverse consequences on the coastal landscape and the local tourism economy.

These latest concerns follow issues with developer RWE’s lacklustre approach to local consultation, which was characterised by incomplete information and the inability to justify the selection of the sub-station sites.

Councillor Colin Davie, Executive Member for Environment and Planning, said: “We’ve had serious concerns throughout the planning process.

“Each of these projects is likely to have significant impact on the local landscape and the local tourism industry. Combined, the consequences could be disastrous for the community.

“In addition, there seems to be no co-ordination between the two, meaning even greater disruption for residents.

We intend to keep fighting, and will do everything we can to stop RWE steamrolling this through against local wishes.Councillor Colin Davie

“It’s ridiculous to have one developer go in and dig everything up, only to have a second do it all again a few months later.

“The situation is made even more frustrating given that the developer has failed to justify the choices they have made in putting together their plans.

“However, if the worst comes to the worst and both projects do get the green-light, we would ask that considerable pressure is put on both developers to work together to save time, money and public anger.

“But ultimately, this is a decision that should lie with the local community. RWE has failed to make a convincing case and does not have the support of residents.

“And we intend to keep fighting, and will do everything we can to stop RWE steamrolling this through against local wishes.”