February 16, 2007
U.K.
U.K.
Up to 90 turbines, each taller than Blackpool Tower, looks set to be built off the Lancashire coast.
The energy plant is planned for the Shell Flat Sandbank, about 12 miles (19.3km) out from the coast between Blackpool and Cleveleys.
The government is urging Blackpool Council to give its approval for the turbines, proposed by Cirrus.
The firm initially applied for permission in 2003, but has now changed its location following a consultation.
Blackpool Council is being consulted on the plans by the Department of Trade and Industry and will discuss them at a meeting on Monday.
Each of the grey three-bladed turbines would be angled away from Blackpool and the closest would be five miles (8km) from the shore.
They will have a maximum height of 177m (581ft), which is seven metres higher than Blackpool Tower, and will be erected in rows of five.
The turbines will be connected to the National Grid and help contribute to government targets on renewable energy.
The report to Blackpool Development Control Committee said: “Wind Farm technology is well established internationally and will play an increasing role in the drive to meet our energy needs from renewable sources.
“The Shell Flat Array proposal would result in one of the world’s biggest wind farms being clearly visible from the Fylde Coast.”
16 February 2007
URL to article: https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2007/02/16/wind-farm-planned-for-blackpool/