Galloper Wind Farm Project - National Infrastructure Planning

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9.0 Mitigation
9.1.1. The inherent characteristics of the proposed GWF, means there are very
limited opportunities for incorporating mitigation measures as part of the
development. The size and generating capacity of the WTGs and associated
offshore sub-station infrastructure has to be sufficient to ensure that they
remain commercially viable and the actual siting of the WTGs is, to a large
extent, predetermined by the Crown Estate with only more local adjustments
being possible to best suit prevailing seabed and other conditions. However,
it is important to note that the location of the proposed GWF has been guided
largely by the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) process undertaken
for the 2nd round of offshore wind developments. A key conclusion of this
SEA process was that no Round 2 developments should be sited within an
8km visual exclusion zone in order to minimise potential visual impacts
upon local receptors. As a result of adhering to this recommendation, and
being sited well beyond this 8km zone, potential visual impacts of the
proposed GWF have already been mitigated for to a large degree.
9.1.2. Careful consideration has been given to the colour of the WTG structures in
order to ensure that they remain relatively visually recessive. There is,
however, a degree of conflict with existing standard requirements for
structures out at sea, which clearly have to remain visible, and identifiable to
shipping. Thus, the need to paint the lower sections of the WTG columns
yellow, in accordance with Trinity House requirements, is unavoidable.
Whilst this assists with improving visibility at sea it should make no
difference to visibility from land given that the WTGs are to be seen at a
minimum distance of over 27km. Navigation and aviation requirements also
necessitate that the WTG locations should be identifiable at night and lit
with navigation and aviation lights. At a minimum distance of over 27km,
however, these navigation lights will make little or no difference to nighttime
visibility from land.