As we know, the Government has set very ambitious targets to try and achieve Carbon Net Zero by 2030 (although this is looking very optimistic to say the least).  The implications of this can be far reaching not only on businesses but potentially landowners. The Government has signalled clear intentions to allow for a greater number of Renewable Energy Projects to be created and constructed in the UK to replace fossil fuel energy production, this can have positive impact, but it also brings plenty of downsides as well.

Some readers will be aware of the Morgan and Morecambe Windfarm Project, which could have a huge impact on the Fylde and South Preston farmland in the forthcoming years if the Project is consented as they will need to bring a huge amount of apparatus offshore to include cables, link boxes and substations.

The latest project that could affect a huge part of the Wyre or South Preston areas is the East Irish Sea Transmission Project, which is being proposed by Orsted, which is a global energy company who construct and operate offshore and onshore windfarms, solar farm, energy storage systems and bio-energy plants; its headquarters are in Denmark and they employ over 8,000 people globally.

The East Irish Sea Transmission Project is seeking consent to bring in the region of 1.3 GW of renewable energy from the Mooir Vannin wind farm Project.  The Project which is located within the Isle of Man territorial waters could consist of up to 87 wind turbines, three offshore platforms and cables connecting the windfarm to the Isle of Man, and it will also have connections to the UK National Grid which will need offshore and onshore cables, booster and conversion substations.  The scale of the Project and its contribution to the UK Energy system means that Orsted will need to apply to the Secretary of State for a Development Consent Order (compulsory purchase). 

The very first stage of the viability of the Project is to undertake an Environmental Impact Assessment and an Environmental Scoping Report.  We understand that the scoping reports will commence in Autumn 2026 and will generally consist of a request to walk over land to undertake environmental reports.

The Project has two potential routes from the Isle of Man to the UK, either making landfall between Formby and Crosby or from Fleetwood and Cleveleys.  The point for the connection into the UK Grid would be at Penwortham.  The map appended clearly identifies the corridor of those areas potentially affected. It is important to note at this stage that it is only a     scoping report, but the Project could have serious implications for landowners within these potential corridors. 

Armitstead Barnett represent the majority of landowners affected by the Morgan and Morecambe Project so we are highly experienced in dealing with Development Consent Orders, Transmission Cables and the statutory legislation relating to high voltage power cables.  It is vital that you do get engagement with a Land Agent to represent you at the very early stages.

If you do get approached or receive correspondence, then please don’t hesitate to contact one of the team and we will be delighted to assist.