Turbine plan given green light
Controversial plans to build a pair of 100 meter wind turbines at a Tesco distribution centre in Llanwern were approved by Newport city council.
The supermarket giant was accused of ignoring resident opposition to the proposals at a planning committee meeting last month, after four community councils expressed concern about the development at the Euro Park Gwent depot.
But councillors approved the plans last week, following a site visit to assess the impact the turbines would have on the surrounding area.
A spokeswoman for Tesco said the company was “delighted” the proposals had been approved, and said Tesco was committed to reducing its carbon footprint while contributing to Newport city council and Assembly government targets on renewable energy.
The two turbines will generate 6570 mega watt hours every year, offsetting annual carbon dioxide emissions by almost 2,000 tonnes.
The energy generated will provide around half of the electricity needed to power the distribution centre, and if any excess is produced it will be exported to the National Grid.
But ward councillor for Llanwern Martyn Kellaway described the decision as a “smack in the face” for local democracy following objections from Redwick, Goldcliff, Bishton and Magor with Undy community councils.
He added the turbines, built within the boundaries of Redwick and Llandevenny Site of Special Scientific Interest, would impact on the historical landscape and local wild life such as birds and bats.
Chairman of Magor with Undy community council Carole Hopkins said residents were sorry Newport city council decided not to take account of local objections, and expressed concern about the value the turbines would have in the area.
Mrs Hopkins said Tesco representatives at an exhibition in Magor had admitted that the site was not within a particularly windy area, and she argued the community would be left with two unwanted landmarks if Tesco decided to move out of the distribution centre.
By Jessica Best
South Wales Argus
22 November 2009
Tags: Wind power, Wind energy
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