2. Business Statement and Announcement

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 2:46 pm on 28 September 2021.

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Photo of Janet Finch-Saunders Janet Finch-Saunders Conservative 2:46, 28 September 2021

As climate change spokesperson, I am a passionate supporter of the renewable energy sector. Indeed, my constituency is home to many offshore easily visible wind turbines—one of the largest—so I'm looking for a statement from the Minister for Climate Change and energy regarding Awel y Môr offshore wind farm. This proposal will see 91 new massive turbines off the coast if permissions are granted. These turbines are planned for 10.6 kilometres off the coast of Llandudno, with a height of 332m to their tip; that's the size of the Eiffel Tower. These plans are currently going ahead with very little participation of stakeholders, so could I request a statement on the following: whether Awel y Môr has already been given pre-consent by this Welsh Government, as it is suggested? What measures are in place to protect biodiversity, especially given concerns about the negative marine impacts of the previous, existing Gwynt y Môr scheme in terms of species decline, with bird and marine life disturbance? What protections might the Welsh Government consider for seaside communities where the main tourist attraction is the coastal horizon, so that we can help to protect our valued tourism industry? And also, just how can our residents have absolute confidence in a planning process that apparently currently appears to pay more lip service than hold meaningful and accessible consultation events for those wanting to contribute their thoughts. Diolch.