November 15, 2006
U.K.
U.K.
Waterfront developers today claimed wind turbines planned for Kings Dock arena would look like art installations.
Five of the 20-metre structures are likely to be erected on the waterfront site to generate electricity.
Their designers saythey are the latest in turbine technology and resemble modern artwork rather than the traditional propellers at Seaforth docks.
But waterfront residents are furious about the proposal and claim the turbines would be a noisy eyesore outside their bedroom windows.
Michael Swerdlow, from the federation of waterfront residents associations, said: “We cannot understand why so much is being crammed on to Kings Dock in the first place.
“Now they are coming up with surprises. There was no mention of wind turbines on the original drawings.
“That particular site faces the bedroom windows of some apartments in the Colonnades. People will be trying to sleep with a strange sound coming from outside.
“The manufacturer says they make no noise, but I cannot see how a device powered by the wind can be silent.
“We are also worried they will be illuminated and used for advertising.
“There are 20 miles of coastline to choose from, yet they want to put them in a residential area.
“The environmental benefit will be cancelled out by the effect of putting five hideous turbines next to aheritage area like Albert Dock.”
But supporters of the idea said the turbines would produce 10% of the Kings Dock arena’s power through “green” technology and should not become a noisy nuisance.
Robert Maguire, the project’s development manager, said: “They are a new prototype designed by a firm called Quietrevolution to be much less noisy than previous turbines.
“They are meant for areas where a sensitive design is needed.
“I understand beauty is in the eye of the beholder and some residents have concerns, but I think they look good and will be interesting to see by the arena.
“Making the site as environmentally friendly as possible was one of the requirements for European funding and the turbines will help achieve that.”
The turbines are recommended for approval by Liverpool council’s planning committee.
Officials say they will respect their “historic location” and have the backing of English Heritage.
They also believe the structures will not affect the city’s skyline or nearby residents.
Liverpool Echo
URL to article: https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2006/11/15/dockland-row-over-artistic-wind-farm/