Concerns remain over plans for rampion wind farm off Adur and Worthing coastline

PROPOSALS for a wind farm off the Adur and Worthing coastline are ‘generally supported’ but concerns remain over how to tackle its negative impacts.

Adur and Worthing councils have submitted a report to the Government, detailing its views over energy giant E-ON’s plan to install up to 175 wind turbines.

The final decision is out of the councils’ hands, but its views must be taken into account.

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Visual impact, and disruptions at Brooklands caused by on-shore cabling work are amongst the issues the report discusses.

Speaking at a meeting of the joint planning committee last week, executive head of planning James Appleton said: “We are trying to make sure that there are local benefits, in terms of the local economy, and that there is appropriate management for the visual impact.

“There could be up to 175 turbines, which will be quite visible, and the South Downs National Park is concerned about the impact from the downs.”

The report, while recognising the benefits of the project, in terms of renewable energy generated and the potential to create up to 1,000 jobs, urged developers to do more work to mitigate the problems.

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In Worthing, one of the major concerns centres on Brooklands, where around 40 metres of cabling will have to be routed under it.

The cables will carry energy generated from the turbines to the substation in Bolny.

Compensation is being negotiated, in recognition that the work will require temporary closure of the nine-hole golf course.

In Adur, Shoreham Port believes the development could impact on anchorage points and create a longer route for ships to the port.

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The councils have suggested a visitor centre, and education programmes in schools could help offset these negative points.

The report states: “The local community’s acceptance of the development will be largely influenced by the applicant’s ability to raise awareness of the benefits of renewable energy, and by demonstrating that this major infrastructure has delivered local economic and community benefits.”

Cllr Michael Cloake (Salvington) highlighted many residents were against the wind farm.

He said: “I have not made up my mind about the wind farm yet, but I would like it noted that a lot of residents, in both my county council and borough wards, really dislike this proposal.

“The spoiled view created as a result won’t be what many people moved to Worthing for.”

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