UK: Navitus Bay Raises Concerns over Jurassic Coast’s WHS Status

Even though the plans for Navitus Bay offshore wind farm have been recently changed, the project is still creating some concerns regarding its visual impact in relation with cultural significance of the Jurassic Coast, as it will be placed 14km (9 miles)off the coastline.

Namely, the Jurassic Coast is one of eight in the world to be awarded World Heritage Site (WHS) status by UNESCO and campaigners are worried that its title could be annulled if the offshore wind farm is built in its proximity, the BBC informs.

The developers have had discussions with the local WHS steering group and Navitus Bay Development director Mike Unsworth explained the situation on that matter to BBC, saying: “The feedback we’ve had is that the designation is for its natural geology.”

He continued: “They’ve said it’s unlikely that [the WHS] designation will be impacted by the development. But what they have also said is the setting of the WHS – in terms of how you view it or what you view from – is a concern to them. We continue to look at how we can mitigate that.”

However, Richard Drax, Conservative MP for south Dorset, said that Navitus Bay is still too close to the coastline.

“The recommendation from the EU is about 23km (14 miles). This will now be about 14km (9 miles) – it’s just too close. Despite the fact there will be less of them we are still going to see these vast structures off one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world,” Mr. Drax said.

To solve this issue, Mr. Unsworth called Richard Drax to the next round of consultation, to see new photo montages and then provide them with fresh feedback.

The new plan for Navitus Bay now proposes 218 turbines up to 200m (600ft) high, with 3km (1.8 miles) further away from Bournemouth than originally planned. Public consultation on this new, modified proposal will be held in 2013.

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Offshore WIND Staff, December 17, 2012; Image: navitusbaywindpark