MP shocked by report supporting wind farm
North Shropshire MP, Owen Paterson, has spoken of his “shock” that North Shropshire District Council officers have given the go ahead to build a wind farm in Norton-in-Hales.
Controversial plans to build seven giant wind turbines at Lower Farm, Bearstone, are set to get the green light from planning chiefs, despite thousands of objections from angry neighbours.
A report set to go before North Shropshire District Council’s development control committee on Tuesday recommends plans for the wind turbines, which will each be 110m in height, be approved.
In a letter to North Shropshire District Council, Owen Paterson said: “I am writing to you to express my shock on reading your NSDC officer’s report recommending its approval.
“In the 11 years I have been an MP, I have never known an issue which has engendered so much hostility.
“I understand officers have to take note of central government policy, councillors though are free to take a different view, based on the interests of local residents.
“You are the leaders of this community and this is a real opportunity to show strong commitment to those you represent.
“There is no benefit to the people of North Shropshire, the only beneficiary of this wind farm is to the developer, who gains very handsomely indeed, but at a terrible cost to my constituents.”
The news comes after more than 2,000 letters of objection flooded into the district council, and just five letters of support.
Parish councils have also objected to the plans from energy firm Nuon Renewables, as well as others.
Terry May, co-ordinator for VORTEX (Veto on Rural Turbine Expansion) said several hundred VORTEX members would turn out at Tuesday’s meeting.
The group would be flying a blimp near the site at 110m on the day, to demonstrate how tall the wind turbines would be.
She said the group was “very disappointed” with the report,”There are plenty of reasons for turning it down,” she added.
“We shall be very peaceful, but we plan to have as many people there as possible.”
The meeting takes place at 6pm at Market Drayton’s Grove School.
By Joseph Masi
29 August 2008
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