Greenpeace stones could complicate surveys for Norfolk offshore windfarm

Greenpeace activists dropped about 15 tonnes of boulders off the Norfolk coast to deter bottom trawling and protect harbour porpoises. Most landed on the planned Norfolk Vanguard East windfarm site, potentially complicating seabed surveys and construction for a project backed by £1bn in public funding.

The windfarm is part of a £12bn deal, with construction due to begin next year. RWE is speaking with Greenpeace to confirm where the boulders are and assess any effects on the project and undersea cables; the company called the discussions constructive. Greenpeace says the stones should not pose a genuine obstacle, as developers routinely move larger natural boulders before building.