Managing consultation on a new wind farm

Brief:

We are currently working on one of the first onshore wind proposals to go to consultation since 2025.

Solution:

Initial outreach included door-knocking and direct meetings with near neighbours, followed by broader engagement through public exhibitions and community meetings.

This sequence of engagement allowed for a proper briefings programme with decision makers and has slowed near neighbours mobilising broader opposition in the nearby towns.

Maintaining dialogue with stakeholders and adjusting messaging between consultation phases to show how the project has progressed will ensure transparency and responsiveness.

Outcome:

The comprehensive, phased approach effectively balanced localised engagement with near neighbours with wider advocacy building in the nearby towns. The tailored communication strategy ensured broad community awareness, positive stakeholder relations, and informed public dialogue.

Following the first round of consultation, 52% of respondents support the use of onshore wind, and 54% of respondents support the principle of a new wind farm locally.