IT is essential that the opposition to onshore wind farms voiced by John Hayes MP (Echo, Nov 1) does not contaminate the vital role offshore renewables will play in securing the UK’s energy future and creating opportunities for supply chain companies.

When reporting wind farm debates the media has to make a clear distinction between onshore and offshore developments, as those located off the coast of the UK will bring significant benefits to our economy and energy security.

The UK has a strong manufacturing base that has developed products, skills and technologies from years of experience in the oil and gas industry that are being applied to the offshore renewables sector in the UK and around the world.

In the North-East alone more than £400m has been invested by 24 companies which are part of the Energi Coast group to ensure the region can become a hub for offshore wind supply chain activities.

Already employing more than 6,000 people and serving offshore wind projects across the world, these companies are poised to support the construction and ongoing maintenance of the next stage of UK offshore renewables developments.

If the Government truly has the ambition to manufacture its way back to a healthy economic position it cannot afford to ignore the offshore wind supply chain’s capabilities and the benefits these companies bring to UK plc.

However, there is a danger that the reporting of the arguments surrounding onshore wind will create unwarranted pessimism, stifle essential investment and overshadow the positive opportunities it can bring to the energy sector and our economy.

Alex Dawson chairman, Energi Coast, Billingham.