Written question WQ84243
- Asked by
- Janet Finch-SaundersConservative
- To be answered by
- Minister for Climate Change
- Tabled
- Due
- Answered
- Time to answer
- 10 days
Question
What steps is the Minister taking to assess the impact of large-scale windfarm developments on the fishing industry in Wales?
Answer
Answered by Minister for Climate Change
Significant growth in offshore wind is anticipated and I am aware of concerns there may be about adverse effects on fish and fisheries.
As the industry increases in size and moves further offshore, and as new floating offshore wind is developed, the nature of impacts may change and it will be important to understand these.
Officials are working with partners to understand the potential effects and are liaising with industry and with NRW, Defra and the Crown Estate and contributing to UK research initiatives.
Offshore wind developers consult the fishing industry early when developing plans and the reduction of impacts on established uses, such as fishing, is a consenting consideration.