UK MP says developer has withdrawn from Morgan windfarm

The 96-turbine development would have impacted Steam Packet services

A UK MP says the company behind plans for a large windfarm between the Isle of Man and his constituency of Fylde has withdrawn from the project.

Andrew Snowden has provided an update on the Morgan Offshore Wind Project.

Manx residents were asked for their views on the Morgan wind farm in 2022, with leaflets sent to households on the Island and drop-in sessions taking place.

The site would have included 96 turbines between the Island's coastline and North West England.

The Steam Packet Company was among those to express concern over the proposals, with the ferry operator describing the safety of navigation of its ships particularly in rough weather as a key concern.

Chris Thomas MHK, who was the infrastructure minister at the time of the public consultation, warned the development could have "huge implications" for the Island.

In a statement on his website, Mr Snowden says: "This is significant news and it throws a very large spanner into the works of the Morgan and Morecambe cabling corridor plans.

"For years, residents have been told that digging up beaches, tearing through countryside, harming wildlife, and putting businesses at risk was all unavoidable and necessary. It now appears that when the subsidies did not stack up, the project collapsed. That speaks volumes."

He went on to add: "I will continue fighting this proposal at every turn, alongside local residents, councillors, parish councils and community groups who have worked tirelessly together to protect Fylde."

During the same consultation, Manx residents were also asked for views on the Morecambe project; a smaller development closer to the English coastline.

Mr Snowden says the future of that development and whether it is financially viable without the Morgan project is unclear.