Offshore Wind UNESCO World Heritage Sites 2024-10-30
2024-10-30
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is concerned about the impact of planning applications for offshore wind farms on nearby UNESCO World Heritage Sites, specifically mentioning the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland.
Whether he has had discussions with the Scottish Government on the criteria for assessing the potential impact of planning applications for offshore wind near UNESCO world heritage sites. I thank—[Interruption.] I have written to UNESCO about a huge offshore wind farm very close to the Giant's Causeway and the UNESCO World Heritage Site there. The Communities Minister in Northern Ireland has also met with UNESCO. Will he make representations to ensure all considerations are taken into account?
Scotland is rightly proud of its six world heritage sites. Responsibility for planning decisions for large-scale energy projects in Scotland rests with Scottish Government Ministers. It would be inappropriate for me to comment on such planning decisions as it is a devolved responsibility. I recognise the importance of considering the protection of local assets when developing renewable projects, particularly at cherished world heritage sites.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific representations or actions regarding the Giant's Causeway and offshore wind farm near it were not addressed.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is concerned about the impact of planning applications for offshore wind farms on nearby UNESCO World Heritage Sites, specifically mentioning the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland.
Whether he has had discussions with the Scottish Government on the criteria for assessing the potential impact of planning applications for offshore wind near UNESCO world heritage sites. I thank—[Interruption.] In any discussions he has, will he take account of the fact that I have written to UNESCO about a huge offshore wind farm very close to the Giant's Causeway and the UNESCO World Heritage site there? The Communities Minister in Northern Ireland has also met with UNESCO. Will the Secretary of State make representations to ensure that all considerations are taken into account?
I am glad that the hon. Member has not lost any of his popularity in the House. It would be inappropriate for me to comment on planning decisions for large-scale energy projects in Scotland, as it is a devolved responsibility. I recognise the importance of considering the protection of local assets when developing renewable projects, particularly at cherished world heritage sites.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific representations or actions regarding the Giant's Causeway and offshore wind farm near it were not addressed.
Response accuracy