East Anglia THREE Offshore Windfarm


How an offshore windfarm is consented


Stage 1: Scoping Scoping is the name given to the initial phase of consultation and is undertaken with stakeholders to identify the method and nature of the assessments required for the project team to consider when designing the East Anglia THREE Offshore Windfarm.


Stage 2: Begin Environmental Impact Assessment Environmental Impact Assessment is the formal part of the consenting process for offshore windfarms. It involves undertaking environmental surveys of a proposed site to: • Quantify and evaluate any potential environmental effects the project may have; and • Identify appropriate measures to eliminate, avoid, reduce or mitigate any potential adverse effects.


A range of onshore and offshore surveys is under way for the project. The areas we have examined to date include all those detailed in the Preliminary Environmental Information Report, including: • Fish and marine mammals;


• Onshore and offshore ornithology;


• Shipping routes and vessels using the site; • Fishing activity in the area;


• The geophysical environment; • Seabed ecology; and • Traffic and transport.


Stage 3: Preliminary Environmental Information The initial results of the survey work undertaken during the Environmental Impact Assessment were presented in a document called a Preliminary Environmental Information Report. This document detailed potential impacts, identified proposed mitigation measures and was the basis for summer/autumn 2014 consultation. In response to the feedback received and in light of project design changes, a further short Phase III Consultation Report has been published for consultation.


Stage 4: Design modification In response to the feedback received after consultation on the Preliminary Environmental Information Report, the project team will consider amendments to the proposed design of the project.


Stage 5: Environmental Statement The Environmental Statement presents the final findings of the Environmental Impact Assessment, including the results of the surveys we have undertaken, any potential impacts our proposal may have and the proposed mitigation measures. The Environmental Statement is submitted alongside the project’s application for consent.


Stage 6: Consent application The project submits an application for consent with a range of additional supporting documents, including the Environmental Statement, to the Planning Inspectorate for examination.


Stage 7: Evaluation The Planning Inspectorate will consider the application and supporting documents, and will


consult with key stakeholders, including local authorities.


Stage 8: Decision The Planning Inspectorate will make a recommendation to the relevant Secretary of State, who will then make a decision on the consent for the project.


COMMUNITY CONSULTATION


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