
Many people have been in contact with Nick Harvey MP regarding the proposals for the Atlantic Array off the North Devon coast.
Now that the public consultation on the Atlantic Array Offshore Wind Farm has finished, the next stage of the process is underway. A draft of the Environmental Statement for the Atlantic Array is expected to be published in the Spring. The National Trust which owns Lundy Island and stretches of the North Devon coast is particularly concerned about its' proximity to the shoreline and the environmental impact.
The Atlantic Array is registered with the Infrastructure Planning Commission (IPC) which is responsible for examining and determining major infrastructure applications. Further information on how this application will be handled by the IPC and how to get involved is available on the IPC's website - http://infrastructure.independent.gov.uk/
The IPC may only accept an application if they are satisfied that the pre- application consultation has been conducted in accordance with the requirements of the Planning Act. Local authorities may make representations to the IPC as to whether the developer has carried out the pre-application consultation adequately and the IPC must consider the views of the local authority when deciding whether or not it can accept an application.
Members of the public and interested bodies can have their say on the application at two points in the planning process:
It is therefore important for anyone with concerns about a developer's pre-application consultation to put their views to North Devon Council. Representations to the IPC are then the next stage.
Nick will continue to watch developments closely and endeavour to keep you informed.
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