Ensure offshore wind boom boosts nature and coastal communities, report urges

A report urges the UK to ensure the offshore wind boom delivers benefits for nature and coastal communities instead of further industrialising the seas. Commissioned by Rewilding Britain, it argues offshore wind should support restoration of the damaged marine environment while avoiding problems seen in past renewable projects on land. The report is released as the UK sector expands rapidly: more than 16 gigawatts are already operational, with an additional 10 gigawatts under construction, and 15.5 gigawatts consented in just the last six months. It says construction can disrupt wildlife through pile driving, dredging and vessel noise, while operational turbines may risk bird collisions or displacement. At the same time, turbines can function as artificial reefs, supporting species such as mussels, barnacles and anemones, and exclusion zones may boost fishing-related spill-over beyond the wind farms. The charity also cites local community concerns, including seascape impacts and limited financial returns when supply chains are abroad. It points to controversy around the approved Berwick Bank project, where more than 4,000 seabirds could be killed in the first year. Rewilding Britain calls for “seascape-scale” planning and aims for 30% of British seas restored for nature by 2030.