The Burbo Bank Extension offshore wind farm lies to the west of Liverpool and has been fully operational since 2017. It occupies a large area of sea and is charted as a wind farm with associated safety and exclusion zones (ie no yachties!). Leisure craft should not enter the wind farm and should pass well clear of the turbines and their cable routes.
When passage planning in this area, allow for the combined effect of the Burbo Bank and Burbo Bank Extension wind farms, together with the nearby Traffic Separation Schemes. Routes can become constrained, particularly in poor visibility or strong tidal conditions, so careful planning using up-to-date charts is essential.
Vessels using the Rock Channel to enter or leave Liverpool should expect regular traffic from wind farm service and maintenance vessels. These craft operate day and night and may be restricted in their ability to manoeuvre while engaged in work. A good lookout should be kept, and allowance made for their movements when depths permit.t
⚠️ For the latest on safety zones, official boundaries, and navigation warnings, always refer to current Admiralty charts and the latest UKHO / Trinity House publications before setting out.
This article was first published on 24 May 2017