WE SHOULD be proud to host the Navitus Bay offshore wind farm. I work in the energy industry, including wind.

As I walk my dog at Highcliffe I often gaze out to sea and look forward to the day when Navitus Bay might get built. Here’s why.

We live on a crowded island, surrounded by shallow seas, in the windy corner of Europe.

Offshore wind is Britain’s best renewable resource.

We have to make it work to compete in the low carbon world our children will inherit.

When I look at a modern offshore wind turbine I see a sophisticated, graceful piece of technology built at breathtaking scale.

How great that the amazing blades for these wind turbines will be manufactured on the Isle of Wight.

If Navitus Bay is built I know that many locals will take pride in our local offshore wind farm.

They will see it as a mark of modernity, civilisation and responsibility, visibly playing our part in the 21st century.

In a decade I hope people around Bournemouth will embrace our offshore wind farm.

Visitors will take day trips to marvel at its scale close up.

Fishermen will delight in the increased life under the waves.

Local people will have cool jobs servicing the wind farm and many will wonder what the fuss was about.

MATTHEW KNIGHT

Mount Pleasant Drive, Bransgore