December 20, 2006
U.K.
U.K.
Aberavon Am Brian Gibbons has joined the chorus of disapproval against plans to bring the UK’s tallest wind turbines to the Afan Valley. Gamesa Energy UK wants to put 14 turbines there.
With a 120-metre tower and a 64-metre blade, the structures would stand well over four times the height of Swansea’s big wheel.
The planned development consists of four turbines in Glyncorrwg and a further 10 on the Gelli mountain near Croeserw.
Dr Gibbons joins opponents including Aberavon MP Hywel Francis who has already spoken out against the proposals.
“Following my meeting with Gamesa today I will be opposing the application in its current form,” said Dr Gibbons.
“Many of the proposed turbines are well within one mile of people’s homes and in some instances even closer than that, and directly in the line of vision from people’s homes.
“The visual impact will be particularly intrusive as the turbines involved are some of the biggest that the wind farm industry has to offer.”
He pointed out that, as the scheme exceeded 50MW capacity, the decision was one for the UK Government rather that the Assembly.
“Developments have to be done with the feeling of communities affected at their heart, and as it stands this is not the case,” added Dr Gibbons.
Gamesa spokesman Rob Fellows pointed out that the company was in the process of consulting on its draft design.
URL to article: https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2006/12/20/am-joins-battle-against-turbines/