July 3, 2007
England
England
Proposals that could see Burton Wold wind farm almost double in size are to be unveiled to residents this week.
Although a formal application for the project is still to be lodged with Kettering Council, landowners the Beaty family, is considering extending the existing wind farm by up to seven more turbines. It already has 10.
The new turbines – which would generate enough electricity to supply about 7,000 homes in Kettering – would be on land north-east of the existing wind farm and south of the A14.
Stuart Beaty said: “We are holding a public exhibition to make sure residents are fully aware of what we are up to. Hopefully we will get their support.
“We hope the extension will go ahead and that it will put Kettering at the forefront of renewable energy.
“It would mean about 40 per cent of Kettering’s power for households would come from renewable energy, which would be really encouraging.”
Set up at a cost of £20m, Burton Wold wind farm began operating in March last year and generates power for 10,000 homes in the area.
Mr Beaty said: “The wind farm has been accepted by the local community and nationally it is something the Government is looking to promote.
Leader of Kettering Council Jim Hakewill said: “I realise people will have contrasting views on the proposed extension to the wind farm. The existing turbines have generated more than electricity.
“If there is to be a planning application for an extension it will go through all the proper and public processes.
“I think only time will tell us the level of contribution wind turbines make to overcoming the overall energy crisis that the country and the world faces.”
Members of the public will have the opportunity to give their views on the proposals at the exhibition in Cranford Village Hall on Thursday, from 12.30pm until 7pm.
By Kerry McDermott
3 July 2007
URL to article: https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2007/07/03/plan-in-pipeline-to-extend-wind-farm/