Diving

The South Coast is a popular region for divers, both recreational and professional. As part of Navitus Bay’s Environmental Impact Assessment, it is looking closely at the range of activities in this region. It is holding discussions with the relevant clubs and vessel operators to understand whether they will be affected by the proposed wind park and how this can be properly mitigated.

Navitus Bay has consulted representatives from the diving community since 2011 and will continue to engage as we move forward through to submission of the application for planning permission.

The purpose of our discussions is to identify the potential impacts of the construction and operation of the wind park on diving activities throughout the year and agree the measures necessary to mitigate those impacts identified. These discussions will be informed by findings from the noise, vibration and marine wildlife assessments undertaken in support of the Project.

Following feedback from consultations with the diving community, Navitus Bay is performing further noise studies - on key wrecks such as the Kyarra and the Betsy Ana - to inform our assessments and identify appropriate mitigation. Navitus Bay, as part of its draft Outline Mitigation Plan, will appoint a Diving Liaison Officer and establish a Communications Plan to inform the diving community on the construction programme.