Ostend (Brussels Morning Newspaper): Dirk Declerck, the manager of Ostend port, is against the Dunkirk wind farm because it could create safety issues for busy shipping routes. He wants to stop the construction to protect the port.
According to Port Manager Dirk Declerck, the port of Ostend supports building a wind turbine park off the coast of Dunkirk to support renewable energy. However, he is concerned about the chosen location for the turbines, as it is along a busy shipping route to and from Ostend. This route is important for commercial and passenger ships, making it crucial for maritime operations in Belgium.
Will Dirk Declerck’s legal action impact the Dunkirk wind farm’s future?
According to Declerk, putting wind turbines along a busy shipping route could disrupt operations and create safety risks. The turbines’ closeness to high-traffic areas might make it harder for ships to navigate, increasing the chances of accidents and affecting the port’s efficiency. While he supports renewable energy projects, Declerck, and the port management believe a better location should be found that won’t interfere with this important shipping route but still promotes green energy.
He mentioned that France won’t change the wind farm’s location. He is asking a judge to stop the planned construction to protect the port from serious damage and is also seeking compensation. Declerck thinks it’s important to act now, before any building permit is given, to avoid being stuck with a decision that can’t be changed later.
