Wind farm inquiry continues despite questions over environmental assessments
A public inquiry into whether a wind farm can be built in the Vale of Belvoir was teetering on the brink of collapse today after queries were raised over the accuracy of environmental assessments.
Representing BLOT — Belvoir Locals Opposing Turbines — Tina Douglass questioned whether several of the assessments were based on plans for ten or seven turbines at the site at Thackson’s Well, near Normanton and Long Bennington.
At one stage, it looked as though the inquiry could be called off, but after an adjournment for checks to be made, inspector David Lavender heard from representatives of developer Infinergy, who confirmed the correct information had been given to consultants carrying out the assessments.
Under dispute were the ecology assessment, an ornothological assessment and an assessment of the site’s flood risk.
Ms Douglass questioned whether the Environment Agency had been made aware that some parts of the site are in a flood risk zone, including the electricity substation.
After speaking with the agency during the adjournment, Infinergy’s advocate Richard Glover confirmed it has no problem with the flood risk.
The inspector has asked to see written confirmation from each consultant before the end of the inquiry next week and decided to continue with the proceedings.
This afternoon and tomorrow morning, he will hear representations for BLOT.
Tomorrow afternoon there will be a session for representations from individual objectors and supporters followed by a discussion about potential planning conditions.
On Thursday and Friday, the inquiry will hear Infinergy’s representations and summing up should be carried out the following Wednesday.
After the inquiry is closed the inspector will consider the evidence presented and announce his decision in due course.
By Jo Hall
7 October 2008
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