DORSET Coast Forum held a seminar at Poole Lighthouse over the proposed wind farm off the Dorset coast.

Around 75 people from the coastal and marine sectors heard about the Navitus Bay plans ahead of the third round of consultation later this year.

Bob Huggins, chairman of the DCF, said: “The aim of meeting was to offer the DCF membership the opportunity to learn about all aspects of the wind park in order to develop a clear understanding of what is being proposed and the potential social, economic and environmental impacts and opportunities.

“The event is timely as the developers have just announced a third round of public consultation in September, and are in the process of finalising their environmental statement.”

With one of the key areas of concern being visual impact, the meeting brought in experts on the Visualisation Standards for Wind Energy Development. Navitus Bay Development Ltd also presented its visualisations.

Bridget Betts, DCF co-ordinator, added: “There has been some excellent feedback, with delegates really appreciating the range in speakers especially those from areas of the United kingdom that have experience in offshore wind farm development.”