February 2, 2007
U.K.
U.K.
BP has been given permission for a wind farm at a disused fuel terminal on the Isle of Grain, despite objections from a nearby microlight business.
The oil company is to build six 80m (262ft) turbines which will supply power for the national grid.
Medway Microlights opposed the plan because of fears turbulence from the turbines would affect its business.
But Medway Council said they would be sited almost 3,000m (3,280 yds) from where the aircraft take off.
“These things are very big – you will certainly see them from the other side of the River Medway,” said council spokesman Robin Cooper.
“But you have to remember there are already some pretty big buildings there – power stations, power lines and the BP oil refinery itself – so it is an industrial landscape.”
‘Drastic’ effect
Chris Draper, of Medway Microlights, which flies from Stoke Airfield, said it could effectively lose one of its runways and 50% of its business.
“The activities of the flying school will be curtailed drastically.
“We have had reports from the Civil Aviation Authority, the British Microlight Aircraft Association and experienced pilots from all over the country who have all categorically stated that these turbines cause a lot of turbulence,” he said.
BP said it had commissioned a report from independent aviation consultants for Medway Council.
“Based on this expert opinion we are confident the proposed wind farm will not compromise safety or activity levels at the airfield,” a statement said.
“We have met Mr Draper on several occasions and are aware of his concerns.
“We will continue to meet him once construction starts and when the farm is operational.”
URL to article: https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2007/02/02/six-turbine-wind-farm-is-approved-2/