December 11, 2006
U.K.
U.K.
A campaign against a planned windfarm got off to a flying start yesterday with the help of South Norfolk MP Richard Bacon.
About 400 protestors gathered at the village hall to pledge their support for Showt (Stop Hempnall’s On-shore Wind Turbines).
The group has been set up to fight Diss-based firm Enertrag UK’s proposal to build seven 130m tall turbines in the village to supply renewable “green” power for the National Grid.
Mr Bacon shares their concerns about siting windfarms in the heart of Norfolk’s rural countryside, where the huge structures would be visible for miles around.
“On the one hand it is a good idea to have renewable energy, but at the same time it has to be in places that are suitable.
“These turbines are going to be taller than Norwich Cathedral, and you need to be sure you don’t cause environmental degradation, so the location is very important.
“It happens that we have around these islands some of the most hostile and inhospitable seas in the world that are extremely windy, and we have the technology to put large structures out to sea that is secure,” added Mr Bacon.
County councillor Stella Rice said: “I am here today because I do feel strongly that the tranquillity and beauty of the area will be spoilt by the turbines. I think it’s going to affect a far wider area than people appreciate.”
District councillor Michael Windridge added: “People feel a deep attachment for their local countryside and want to protect it.”
The launch included a walk along ancient green lanes that could be lost if the development went ahead.
URL to article: https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2006/12/11/protestors-say-no-to-hempnall-windfarm/