Photo by Anthony Aird

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has launched a public consultation on proposed reforms to environmental compensatory measures for offshore wind developments. The consultation, which opened on July 22 and closes on September 2, 2025, aims to gather feedback on a more flexible and pragmatic approach to managing environmental impacts on Marine Protected Areas (MPAs).

The reforms seek to clarify requirements for compensation when offshore wind projects cause unavoidable harm to MPAs. Key proposals include expanding the range of compensatory measures available and updating legislation and guidance to better support marine developers, regulatory bodies, and conservation agencies.

According to Defra, the changes are designed to accelerate the UK’s transition to net zero and support the government’s “Clean Power by 2030” mission, while also contributing to nature recovery goals.

Stakeholders involved in offshore wind development or environmental conservation are encouraged to respond. Feedback will inform both the legislative framework and accompanying guidance.

Interested parties can submit their views through an online survey. For more information, contact: offshorewindreform@defra.gov.uk or visit the consultation webpage.