The application, submitted in August 2023, includes the onshore infrastructure for the seven-turbine wind farm, with its landfall near Saunton Sands beach and a cable route to the East Yelland substation. The approval comes with conditions, such as limiting construction to daylight hours, excluding Sundays and bank holidays, and restricting drilling to the April-to-October period. A Section 106 agreement is also required to outline developer contributions to local communities and environmental initiatives.
Following a public consultation earlier in 2025, the council requested additional environmental data due to concerns about the project’s proximity to the popular Saunton Sands beach. The offshore elements of the wind farm are still pending approval from the Marine Management Organisation.
Al Rayner, White Cross project director, stated: “We are delighted that North Devon councillors have voted to approve the onshore elements of the wind farm. We are grateful to everyone who has engaged with the project throughout the process. In response to the feedback, we have adapted our plans to minimise environmental and social impacts.”
The White Cross wind farm is expected to generate renewable energy for approximately 135,000 homes, supporting the region’s transition to sustainable energy. The project aims to foster a local supply chain, create jobs, and contribute to the UK’s leadership in floating offshore wind technology. Rayner emphasized the project’s role in advancing clean energy while addressing community and environmental considerations.
This approval marks a significant step for the White Cross wind farm, aligning with efforts to expand renewable energy infrastructure in North Devon and contribute to broader environmental goals. The project’s completion depends on securing the remaining offshore permits and fulfilling the stipulated conditions.
