MWT issues statement after Earystane site is favoured for wind farm

Charity says it looks forward to 'scrutinising' ecological reports 

The Manx Wildlife Trust says it expects government to carry out full ecological surveys, and impact assessments, as part of a planning process for a new onshore wind farm.

This week it was confirmed Earystane and Scard was the preferred location for the renewable energy development. 

The charity says it’s supportive of the journey to NetZero and already asked questions regarding proposed timelines.

It adds climate change is the biggest single threat to biodiversity globally and it is 'delighted' that government is 'driving this forward in multiple ways'. 

In a statement, the Manx Wildlife Trust adds: "The IOM environment and biodiversity are extremely important and must be considered in all our Island developments. 

"MWT are therefore trusting and expecting the IOM Government to carry out full ecological surveys and impact assessments as part of a full planning process before anything is agreed for any potential site. 

"MWT has already asked questions to the IOM Government, behind the scenes, regarding the proposed timelines and process for the onshore wind farm. 

"Right now, no site has been confirmed and nothing is being built. 

"Earystane is a ‘preferred site’ but there will be around two years of ecological assessments and consultation ahead before it goes to planning. 

"We look forward to scrutinising the ecological reports, and we will respond to the consultation and planning process with our views robustly, if/when we are invited to do so and if/when we believe it is necessary. 

"In the meantime we will continue to have private communications with the IOM Government with the best interests of wildlife at heart." 

You can find out more HERE.