In this episode we dive into a subject that’s both powerful and often controversial in the world of onshore wind: compulsory purchase powers.

Host Pete Gibbard is joined by Ardent colleagues Amy Clark Kennedy (Director of Renewables) and Martin Williams (Director of Renewables, England & Wales), along with guest Alasdair Sutherland, Partner at Burness Paull, to explore: 

• What compulsory purchase really means in practice.
• Why it’s so rarely used in Scotland – and whether that might change.
• Will it’s use in onshore wind DCOs in England see a change in approach in Scotland.
• The balance between landowner relationships and securing delivery certainty.

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Ardent Talks: Shooting The Breeze, hosted by Pete Gibbard
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In this episode we do a deep dive into the critical role of land in onshore wind development. Host Pete Gibbard is joined by Ardent colleagues Gillian Lang (Head of Scotland) and Amy Clark Kennedy (Director of Renewables), along with guest Alan Cook, Real Estate Partner at Eversheds Sutherland. The team also explores why land is the foundation of every project, what types of land agreements developers need, the evolution of landowner relationships and what the future holds for land strategy and innovation in renewables.

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Ardent Talks: Shooting The Breeze, hosted by Pete Gibbard
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In Ardent's first episode of Shooting the Breeze, we dive into the opportunities and challenges facing onshore wind delivery in the UK. Host Pete Gibbard is joined by industry experts Gillian, Amy, and Martin to discuss the UK’s ambitious wind energy targets, the impact of grid reform and CP30, and the significance of lifting the onshore wind ban in England. The team also explores the complexities of repowering old wind farms, the return of large-scale wind projects in England, and the key land considerations for successful project development. Packed with expert insights, this episode sets the stage for a dynamic series on the future of onshore wind.

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Ardent Talks: Shooting The Breeze, hosted by Pete Gibbard
Learn more about Ardent or get in touch