Depending on the size of the project, there is likely to be increased activity on local roads during construction – as is the case for any major infrastructure project.
Developers work closely with local and state authorities to ensure that road use complies with safety regulations and that roads are restored to their original condition or better.
Further, a detailed Traffic Management Plan (TMP) is developed to manage traffic, which include designated routes and times of day for deliveries (to avoid peak traffic).
The TMP also stipulates that host landholders and community members are kept up to date about roadworks and traffic impacts. In many cases, the wind farm’s development can lead to permanent improvements in local infrastructure, such as:
- Upgraded roads: The roads widened or reinforced for wind farm construction can benefit local communities by improving access and road quality in the long term and by creating fire breaks and access for emergency vehicles.
- Better access: Rural areas may benefit from better road networks for local traffic and agricultural use.
