Conwy and Denbighshire Landscape Sensitivity and Capacity Study

Gillespies was commissioned to provide an evidence-based assessment of the relative sensitivity and capacity of the Conwy and Denbighshire’s landscapes to accommodate wind energy development of varying scales. The aim of the report is to inform the development of strategic Supplementary Planning Guidance and assist the councils in assessing the landscape and visual effects of wind energy development for development control purposes.

The study considers the main factors that influence the sensitivity of Conwy and Denbighshire’s landscape to wind energy development and describes how these are combined to identify spatial variations in relative sensitivity. It then provides an indication as to where wind energy development might best be located and an indication of the appropriate scale of development, based on thresholds of maximum capacity. The assessment approach was developed with the Project Steering Group which includes representatives from both councils as well as representation from Natural Resources Wales.