River-users and Navigation
The use of in-river turbines will alter only the route of water through the weir, ensuring that the upstream and downstream water levels will not be affected. Water users will be prevented access to the turbines by piles, cross-chains and grills. The water flow through the lock cut and the millrace will remain unchanged and so boat navigation and water sports will remain unaffected.

Fisheries and Angling
Due to its location, the scheme will not affect any formal angling points. Fish screens upstream and downstream of each turbine will ensure fish are not taken into the turbine, therefore protecting aquatic life.

Local Ecology
The scheme will utilise less than 20% of the Thames average flow, and at no point is this flow taken away from the river itself. A wetting flow will be maintained over the weir at all times to allow the normal passage of wildlife and the scheme will have no effect on water quality.

Flood Flow
Although Romney Weir has ten sluice gates, it has been demonstrated that this is oversized for flood control. Using up just two of these gates will have no effect on the weir's capability to control river flow in flood conditions.

Visual Impact
The turbines themselves will be incorporated into two weir bays and ground based control equipment located in the existing Environment Agency building on Romney Island. As the turbines are submerged, the generating equipment will not be visible from public footpaths on either Romney Island or Windsor Bank.

Noise
The submerged turbines will generate relatively little noise, and when this is compared to night-time background levels, from sources such as traffic and overhead aircraft, no noise impact is expected. A noise survey will be completed on commissioning to ensure satisfactory performance.

Local Disruption
The construction process has been designed to minimise local disruption. Access and transportation over the entire construction period will primarily be via river barges to Romney Island. Workmen will access the site using the public footpath. Only a small fenced off working area will be needed on Romney Island. Work will be limited to daytime periods, and pumps and generators will be fitted with appropriate silencers and acoustic hoods as necessary.

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