November 27, 2006
U.K.
U.K.
Aircraft could be put in danger by a giant wind turbine set to be built near Sheffield airport, it was claimed today.
Worried aviation bosses fear the 270ft high structure, with 90ft blades, could potentially lead to a disaster near Sheffield Parkway.
Peel Airports says the turbine, near the approach funnel for the runway, would “constitute a serious obstacle to the safe operation of aircraft”.
After hearing objections, Rotherham Council planners are awaiting comments from the Civil Aviation Authority but have provisionally granted approval.
Catcliffe Parish Council has also objected, claiming the development would be “very large and overbearing” and a traffic hazard for commuters on the Parkway.
The wind turbine is set to be built at Wallis Way, Catcliffe, along with an advanced manufacturing research building, offices and car park. Situated a few hundred yards from the airport, it would form part of the developing advanced manufacturing park.
Developers include several high-tech industries and testing facilities for the aerospace industry.
Peel Airports, which owns Robin Hood airport and Sheffield airport, has called on the CAA to look into the plans. The CAA has not yet made a decision.
The area is part of the opencast site near Orgreave, Treeton and Catcliffe, which houses industrial units that form part of the Advanced Manufacturing Park.
A spokesman for Rotherham Council, which will decide whether the turbine is given the go-ahead, said: “We are recommending that planning councillors support the application, subject to the CAA’s approval.
“There are objections and Catcliffe Parish Council has requested that planning board members first visit the site due to the vastness of the planned buildings.
“But the proposal is considered acceptable in principle and would enhance the existing Advanced Manufacturing Park.”
Residents in Catcliffe and Treeton are unhappy with the plans which they believe will lead to an overbearing presence and possible noise pollution.
By Steve Hewitt
URL to article: https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2006/11/27/wind-turbine-aircraft-threat/