April 12, 2007
U.K.

Storm mounts over Exmoor turbine plans

An application for two 100-metre wind turbines, close to the Exmoor National Park boundary has been dubbed as “adding insult to injury”, as the bid follows hot on the heels of an application for nine turbines at Batsworthy Cross.The latest application has been submitted for two turbines and associated structures at Cross Moor, near Knowstone, South Molton.

The criticism came from Kate Ashbrook, general secretary of the Open Spaces Society, who has lodged a strong objection with planning authority North Devon District Council.

The council is considering the plan, submitted by Cross Moor Devon Light and Power.

Kate said: “The proposed wind turbines at Cross Moor are in an area of immense landscape and recreational value, being only four kilometres away from the Exmoor National Park, designated because it is a top landscape.

“And they are only two kilometres from the Two Moors Way long-distance path across Devon, which is much used and enjoyed, by walkers in particular.

“The proposed turbines and the paraphernalia which accompanies them will be a gross eyesore in this lovely setting, especially when viewed from the popular public access land at East and West Anstey and Molland Common on the south-west ridge of Exmoor.

“The tops of the turbines will break the skyline and the rotating blades will glint in the sun. They will be horribly visible.

“This peaceful area of Mid Devon, with its intimate landscape combined with wide moorland expanses, cannot accommodate such monstrosities as those proposed in the Cross Moor and Batworthy Cross applications.

“The character of the area will be destroyed, along with people’s quiet enjoyment of it. The developments will have an adverse effect on the economy of the area, which is dependent on tourism.

“We urge the district council to reject this damaging application, along with the one at Batworthy Cross.”

By Kate Helyer

westernmorningnews.co.uk

12 April 2007


URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2007/04/12/storm-mounts-over-exmoor-turbine-plans/