Abstract:
The West of Duddon Sands Offshore Wind Farm is located in the Irish Sea off the English coast. The site is currently being developed by a joint venture between Scottish Power Renewables and DONG Energy. During the site maturation phase the interpretation of geophysical survey data revealed localised bedrock cropping out close to seabed in the southern part of the site. This outcropping bedrock influenced the layout of the site and was identified as intrusive igneous rock of Tertiary age. A variety of different site investigation methods were used to identify the intrusive igneous rock, ranging from seismic profiling and magnetic gradiometer to in situ sampling and testing, and onshore laboratory testing. Due to the extensive heat impact of the intrusion, the mechanical properties of the surrounding native rock formation (Mercia Mudstone Group) have been altered.
This metamorphic evidence has been detected up to ~250m from the intrusions.