2004, HR Wallingford, Ormonde, Scoping Study for Coastal Processes

A desk study of the coastal and seabed processes to set out the existing state of knowledge and to assess the potential impact of the development in accordance with the CEFAS Guidance Notes 2004. The assessment takes account of any cumulative impacts arising from the nearby Consented Barrow Offshore Windfarm and from the potential Shell Flats, West of Duddon and Walney Offshore Windfarms. Environmental Statement Appendix 4. The findings reveal limited, short-term, and localized impacts on waves, currents, and sediment regimes, with no significant far-field or cumulative effects expected, provided mitigation measures such as carefully designed cable burial, use of suitable scour protection, and careful timing of construction are implemented. Coastal dynamics around Walney Island and the Duddon Estuary remain stable, but the study recommends continued post-construction environmental monitoring and site-specific engineering assessments to address potential minor changes near landfall areas and to account for climate-driven sea level rise, ensuring the project’s compatibility with local environmental protections.