Wind farm appeal opens
A public inquiry into a decision to reject plans for a wind farm in the Vale of Belvoir started today (Tuesday).
Dorset-based developer Infinergy appealed after South Kesteven District Council refused to allow the 10-turbine wind farm to be built at Thackson’s Well, near Normanton and Long Bennington in March.
The inquiry, whch could last up to three weeks, is excpected to hear from 30 witnesses, from landscape architects and heritage, planning and environmental experts to health professionals and members of the public.
Opening the inquiry at The Olde Barn Hotel at Marston, inspector David Lavender said: “The main battleground in my own mind at this stage is firstly the landscape impact and the interplay between the natural and historic landscape.
“The second is the effect on people that live nearby, particularly their dwellings and those that live closest to the turbines.
“It has been said one should always approach inquiries with an open mind, not an empty head, and that is what I intend to do with this case.”
After administrative matters were discussed, the inquiry heard opening submissions from advocates of the three sides – developer Infinergy, SKDC and campaign group BLOT – Belvoir Locals Oppose Turbines.
SKDC’s four witnesses are due to appear today, tomorrow (Wednesday) and Thursday and BLOT’s 13 witnesses are due to start giving evidence on Friday.
If the proceedings go as planned, BLOT’s submissions will be concluded by next Wednesday morning (October 8).
A session for third parties, including members of the public, to give evidence has been set aside for that afternoon.
The inquiry will hear Infinergy’s submissions for the rest of next week, followed by site visits to Thackson’s Well and other sites such as Belvoir Castle and Bellmount Tower.
Proceedings may have to run into a third week if the advocates’ closing comments cannot be made by Friday, October 10.
By Jo Hall
30 September 2008
Tags: Wind power, Wind energy
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