Offshore Wind Farm boosting local economy
Sheringham Shoals Offshore wind farm, based 10 miles out to
sea, is one of several offshore renewable wind farms that are being constructed
off the coast of Norfolk.
These projects are normally faced with hard opposition,
but Wells-next-the-sea have really
embraced the opportunities the wind farm can bring.
Wells, is a quaint seaside town which heavily relies on the
tourist trade. It has had a port for over 700 years and a small fishing fleet
still work out of the harbour. When the Sheringham Shoals project was in
planning phase, it was decided that the Wells outer harbour would be the
obvious choice to transport technicians and engineers to and from the wind
farm. There are approximately 150 people working on the wind farm construction
and once it’s fully operational it will be run for at least 50 years.
It was reported recently on a local BBC documentary that local
businesses in Wells have benefitted from the wind farm activity. Local
accommodation providers have regular visitors staying both in and out of the
season. And it’s not only accommodation providers who are reaping the benefits,
a local butchers and greengrocers also
receive regular large orders to supply a floating hotel, situated just off the
coast of Wells, which accommodates between 100 – 150 people who are working on
the project. There are plenty of other small businesses such as a chandlery and
many others who have also seen increased trade outside of the holiday season.
The town’s economy has been boosted as a result of the wind farm
and it is hoped that with the long term strategy in place, this green energy
technology will leave a lasting legacy.
Our cottages are close to Wells and with our great green
credentials we have benefitted from corporate and associated business from family
and friends employed in Wells as part of the offshore wind technologies
installations. It’s exciting to know that renewable resources are having
such a positive impact to our local businesses.