Clacton: Turbine work may mean ships ban (From Gazette)

Clacton: Turbine work may mean ships ban

4:04pm Tuesday 15th July 2008 in

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Ships could be forced to stay at least 500 metres from an offshore wind farm during its construction, amid fears about falling objects.

Work to install 56 wind turbines at Gunfleet Sands, about four nautical miles off Clacton, is set to start in September.

Dong Energy wants to make sure passing vessels are not hit by stray items falling from the 80-metre-plus pylons and sightseers trying to get a closer look at the turbines do not collide with construction traffic.

It also wants to ensure the area is left clear for lifeboats and other rescue ships.

It has applied for a 500m safety zone bordering the vast construction site (more than about 150,000 sq metres/15 hectares).

Craft venturing too close to the site will be intercepted.

Consultation on the safety zone ends on August 15.