Mainstream Renewable Power, the global renewable energy developer, is inviting local people to have their say on the proposed Neart na Gaoithe offshore wind farm at community consultation exhibitions being held in East Lothian in May 2011.
In February 2009, Mainstream was awarded the exclusive rights by the Scottish Government to develop the Neart na Gaoithe offshore wind farm, which would be located about 15.5 km east of Fife Ness. One of the proposed wind farms in the Firth of Forth/Firth of Tay region, Neart na Gaoithe was chosen for its development suitability, combining acceptable water depth and ground conditions, low shipping densities and optimal wind speeds.
Communities and sea users in East Lothian who may see some impact from Neart na Gaoithe form a key part of the development’s consultation process. The consultation events will also cover the grid connection. It is planned the onshore cable will come onshore near Torness Power Station and connect to an extension of the existing Crystal Rig substation.
Commenting on the consultation exhibitions, Mainstream’s Zoe Crutchfield said: “It’s very important for us that the local community has plenty of opportunity to get their opinions heard and to voice any concerns they may have so that their views are taken into account. We have already undertaken extensive scoping work and identified key people issues, such as fishing and aviation radar, which we are addressing directly with those who will be most affected. Now it’s the community’s turn and that’s why we are holding these exhibitions”.
Local wildlife issues are also under consideration, with the potential impact on birds and marine mammal populations considered to be key issues for this development. Extensive, long term marine mammal and bird surveys are currently taking place: their outcomes will be analysed and fed into the overall development plans.
“We understand that wind farm developments can lead to some polarised views, especially where wildlife is concerned so we want to show that we are taking wildlife and environmental issues very seriously. Coming along to an event will let people see the steps we are taking to ensure that environmental impacts are minimised.”
The free community consultation dates are:
Innerwick: Tuesday 10th May 2011
Innerwick Village Hall, Innerwick, EH42 1SE
4.00pm to 8.00pm
Dunbar: Wednesday 11th May 2011
Hall Hill Healthy Living Centre,Kellie Road, Dunbar, EH42 1RF 2.00pm to 8.00pm
At each event there will be a small exhibition on the proposed wind farm, computer simulations of how it might look from the shore and members of the Mainstream team to answer visitors’ questions. All are welcome to attend and all venues are fully accessible. Parking is available locally.
Ends
Editor’s Notes
- Journalists are invited to join the Mainstream team for a private preview of the consultation exhibitions on the days concerned. Please contact Mainstream on 0800 032 1446 to arrange your private preview.
- More information on Neart na Gaoithe from www.neartnagaoithe.com or through [email protected]
- The name Neart na Gaoithe is Gaelic meaning “might of the wind” and is pronounced phonetically as: Nart na Gweeha.
- For more information, contact Mainstream on 0800 032 1446