This is a quick update about progress with the consenting processes for the proposed Awel y Môr offshore windfarm, and to highlight the final Examination hearings that are due to be held in Llandudno in February-March 2023.
The Development Consent Order (DCO) is presently being evaluated by the UK Planning Inspectorate. It is due to be determined by the UK Secretary of State for Energy in September 2023.
The Examination of the DCO application began on 21st of September 2022 and runs until 21st of March 2023. It comprises public hearings and deadlines for submission of written materials. The Planning Inspectorate’s Examining Authority held meetings in Llandudno in September 2022, and made a site visit and conducted further hearings in December 2022.
As the process nears its end, two final hearings are due to be held in Llandudno. The first is a Compulsory Acquisition Hearing (relating to rights over land onshore), which will take place on Tuesday 28th February. The second is an Issue Specific Hearing (ISH4) on “Offshore environmental effects and the draft Development Consent Order“, which will take place on Wednesday 1st March.
The agendas for both meetings and further details about them have been published by the UK Planning Inspectorate this week and are available here. The agenda for ISH4 is available here (English) and here (Welsh). This does not mention fisheries matters, but may be of interest to you given the offshore focus. Advice on participation, conduct and management of the hearing is included in the agenda.