November 29, 2006
U.K.

Wind backers out in force

Wind energy supporters turned out in force for the opening day of the Fullabrook Down wind farm public inquiry that started at Barnstaple Guildhall yesterday (Tuesday).

Campaigners from Friends of Fullabrook, the Green Business Forum, Devon Action Youth and the Green Party are in favour of Devon Wind Power’s plans for a renewable energy site between Barnstaple and Ilfracombe. If passed, it would be Devon’s largest wind farm with 22 110-metre tall turbines.

The four-week inquiry, called by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), will give inspector Dr Chris Gossop the chance to hear evidence by applicant, North Devon District Council, Devon County Council and other interested parties both for and against the scheme, before a final decision is reached next year.

Rosemary Brian of the Green Business Forum said she would be speaking at yesterday’s initial hearing.

“In July and August, we asked 414 people holidaying in North Devon whether wind turbines would affect their decision to return to the region. Ninety per cent said that turbines would make no difference, while five per cent said that they would be more likely to return as wind turbines would show North Devon to be progressive and doing its bit to combat global warming.

“Only one per cent of those asked said they were les likely to come back,” she added.

The enquiry continues until December 22.

devon24.co.uk


URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2006/11/29/wind-backers-out-in-force/