Community information sessions planned for offshore wind farm proposal

Ørsted to host events as examining panel compiles report

The company behind plans for an offshore wind farm in Manx waters is set to host a series of community information sessions later this month.

Ørsted has arranged for four events to take place at the Comis Hotel in Santon.

Held each day from 22 November to 25 November (the Sunday session is 1pm to 7pm, the other three are 2pm to 8pm), Orsted says each session will provide opportunities to:

• Speak directly with members of the Mooir Vannin project team

• View the latest information about the offshore wind farm project

• Ask questions and discuss queries about Ørsted’s proposals

• Use virtual reality headsets to see how the wind farm might look from four viewpoints on the Island’s east coast

A webpage has been set up with the latest project information and to allow anyone to submit a question to the Mooir Vannin project team. 

Anyone wishing to meet the team in person at one of the community information events is asked to book an appointment using the dedicated webpage. 

Postcards have been sent to households and businesses across the Isle of Man inviting them to the sessions.

Jamie Baldwin, Mooir Vannin Project Director, says: "These sessions follow extensive voluntary and statutory public consultation events we have held over the past three years, and the public meetings and specific issue hearings held as part of the six-month independent examination which closed on 9 September. 

"As we have done throughout the development of the Mooir Vannin project, we’re looking forward to answering questions and continuing conversations with everyone who has an interest in our proposals. 

"During the examination we have had constructive dialogue with key stakeholders on a range of issues, and statements of common ground show where we have reached agreements on specific issues. 

"However, it’s important to understand that since the independent examination process has now concluded, the community information sessions are intended for information sharing only. 

"Any views or comments raised during the sessions will not form part of the examining body’s recommendation."

Examination process

Earlier this year Orsted’s proposals for an 87-turbine wind farm off the east coast of the Isle of Man were scrutinised by an examining body.

A range of representatives gave evidence to a panel, which has since been given 60 working days to compile a report and provide the Council of Ministers with a recommendation.

That report is due to be discussed in early December; CoMin will then have 30 days to make a decision.

You can find out more HERE.

Reflecting on the independent examination Mr Baldwin adds: "We appreciate all the feedback during the independent Examination from those who have raised concerns, requested more information, and expressed support for, or opposition to, Mooir Vannin. 

"The independent examination process has scrutinised every aspect of our proposals and we have genuinely enjoyed speaking to people about the project from all walks of life. 

"We don’t always have all the answers to certain questions, particular where further clarity is required from government but we have tried to be as open and transparent as possible and will continue to do so."