Lancashire councils progress economic review of offshore wind connection options
Early findings from a technical review into the potential benefits of alternative offshore wind connection options along the Fylde Coast suggest significant economic long-term value for Lancashire.
Following a joint letter to government earlier this year setting out their intention to commission this work, Lancashire County Council, Fylde Council and Wyre Council have now received early findings from a technical review of the onshore connection options linked to the Morgan and Morecambe offshore wind projects.
The early findings support concerns that have been raised locally and begin to set these out more clearly through economic analysis. They indicate there may be a case to examine alternative approaches in more detail, with the potential to deliver significantly greater long-term economic benefits for Lancashire.
Further work is now being carried out to complete the assessment. With the current planning process moving towards determination, the councils will conclude this work quickly and will contact government as soon as the final report is received to set out their position.
The review is being undertaken using the Government’s Green Book methodology and is focused on the economic implications of different connection options, including areas around Stanah and Hillhouse.
Councillor Joshua Roberts, Cabinet Member for Rural Affairs, Environment & Communities at Lancashire County Council, said:
"I’m pleased to see Lancashire County Council working alongside Fylde and Wyre Councils, collectively putting the interests of Fylde Coast residents first by taking a closer look at the alternative route and putting forward our findings to central government for proper consideration.
"I am doing all I can to stop the current cable corridor route and ensure a better option is fully explored. This is about driving economic growth while protecting our environment in the best possible way. There is more to follow, but these initial findings represent a strong and positive start."
Councillor Karen Buckley, Leader of Fylde Council, said:
“These early findings give us a clearer basis for asking the right questions. It is important that all options are properly tested, particularly where there may be different ways of delivering the infrastructure with less impact on our coastline, heritage and rural areas.”
Councillor Michael Vincent, Leader of Wyre Council, added:
“This work is helping us to build a strong case for increased economic development at the Hillhouse Enterprise Zone. If the government accepts the case we are building it could see significant investment in the site creating jobs and improving outcomes for local people."
Further work on the assessment will continue over the coming weeks.