Community fund consultation event: Collaborating for local benefit

We were delighted to welcome around 40 local residents to drop-in events at village halls in Little Weighton and Walkington over 24 and 25 February 2026, to discuss the proposed community fund associated with the DBS projects. The meetings were designed to give residents local to the site of the projects’ proposed converter stations a voice in shaping how the community benefit package could be delivered.

About the community benefit package

The proposed fund is being developed in line with the latest Government guidance, which encourages projects like ours to support local aspirations and priorities. The planned converter stations for DBS are expected to qualify, which would mean a total community fund of up to £1,060,000, assuming two stations are consented and constructed.

Community input is vital to ensuring the fund addresses the issues and opportunities most important to local people. In additional to the drop-in events, residents are able to share their views through an online survey. By 10 March, more than 400 people had already shared their views through the survey which is open until 27 March 2026. Paper versions of the survey are available on request by emailing dbs@rwe.com, calling 0800 254 5459 or writing to FREEPOST DBSOSWF.

To learn how community funds have been used elsewhere, see examples from Watten Shop, Green Shoots, Angle for the Community, Bicker Village Hall, and Dolen Teifi.

More than a fund: wider benefits

The DBS Community Benefit Package extends beyond the proposed community fund and is already contributing to education and skills by delivering STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) initiatives, helping to equip young people for future careers in offshore wind.

Additionally, the UK Government has proposed an electricity bill discount scheme—which, if approved, would provide up to £2,500 in bill reductions over ten years for households within 500 metres of the converter stations. Implementation details are being finalized following the recent Planning and Infrastructure Act, with the scheme expected to launch by 2026.

Continuing the conversation

Updates will be provided as the projects develop and further details become available.

Participation of residents local to the proposed converter stations is essential in shaping a legacy that brings lasting benefit to the area. Thank you to everyone who attended the recent consultation events and to all who continue to share their ideas and aspirations with us.