Archaeology

At each stage of the cable route construction, archaeologists were on site alongside the construction team, working to define and record any archaeological finds which may be exposed during the works.

Offshore archaeological surveys were also incorporated into the planning of the wind farm to make sure wrecks were avoided and to identify unexploded ordnances and other potential features of archaeological interest.

Onshore

Archaeologists from local specialists Archaeology South-East and Wessex Archaeology excavated a Bronze Age Cross Dyke at Tottington Mount. The below-ground remains were consistent with other cross dykes in the region, although distinctive pottery may provide dating evidence that with help to refine the understanding of the Bronze Age period. More information can be found on the case studies page here.

Details and an analysis of the dig will form part of a full report on the historic environment, which will be produced after all the onshore works, including reinstatement, are complete.

A preliminary report entitled: Archaeological investigations on Rampion Offshore Wind Farm onshore cable route, West Sussex: A Post-excavation Assessment and updated Design Report was completed in June 2018.

Archaeological investigations on Rampion onshore cable route – Post-Excavation Assessment and updated Project Design Report_June2018

Representatives from Historic England, West Sussex County Council and the South Downs National Park Authority have been involved throughout the onshore archaeological process.

Offshore

During early offshore surveys two unexploded devices, thought to date from World War II, were discovered along the offshore cable route, three kilometres off Lancing Beach and in a water depth of 13 metres.

The Marine Management Organisation granted permission for disposal, and commercial and recreational sea users were informed of the work in advance. A safety exclusion zone was monitored during the disposal process.

Rampion worked with experts to determine the best and safest way to clear the site. Two routine controlled explosions were carried out clearing the way for the installation of the offshore export cable.

Fisheries

Early, open and ongoing communication has been key to Rampion's engagement with the fishing community.

Surveys of the natural habitats were carried along the whole proposed onshore cable route and substation to enable land to be reinstated as it was prior to construction.

It was decided early to underground the entire length of the onshore cable, rather than using pylons and overhead lines.

Surveys were undertaken as part of the planning phase to identify how the marine area was used by birds, fish and shellfish, benthic and marine mammals.