August 3, 2007
England
England
West Cumbrian residents are furious that plans have been put forward to increase the number of wind turbines from 11 to 40 near their villages.
At present, Mellinsus, the company which wants to erect the turbines, does not have planning permission to increase the number of them. But if that changes, then residents of Tallentire, Wardhall, Dearham, Crosby Villa and Prospect could find many more of the 100-metre masts on their doorstep.
Campaigns have been launched against the original plans last year.
Alan Osliff, of Prospect, is campaign co-ordinator for his village and has written an open letter to landowners in the area, asking them not to collaborate with the company.
He said: “We currently have the minimum number of wind turbines allowed to be put up in our area. The council understands that the 11 we already have are enough, so why doesn’t the company?
Mellinsus has produced a scoping document, which lays down its plans for more wind turbines in the area, before planning permission can be granted.
The residents worry that more turbines could affect the house prices in the area.
Mr Osliff said: “There are lots of arguments for and against these developments.
“It is a fact that in some areas people have experienced problems that have ruined their quality of life.
“Problems such as noise, vibrations, shadow flicker and property devalued by up to 30 per cent.
“We could end up in a situation where no-one would be able to sell their properties so then no-one would be able to move in.”
Campaigns have been set up against the development of the wind farm in Prospect, Tallentire and Dearham.
A recent survey undertaken by villagers showed that 97 per cent were against the wind turbines being erected.
Mr Osliff has written to landowners and hopes to set up a meeting between them and the affected residents.
Mr Osliff said: “Out of 150 residents only five were in favour of the turbines being put up here, and one of those was the landowner himself.
“We would like the opportunity to talk this through with the landowners, they should listen to how the community feels.
“At the end of the day we all have to live together. I wish they would think about how it affects us instead of how much money they would receive.”
If given the go-ahead then the wind turbines would be there for 25 years and Mr Osliff said: “We have not spoken to any developer yet that can 100 per cent guarantee that their wind farm will be problem-free. Once these turbines are up we will have to live with any potential problems. This is our area of concern.”
3 August 2007
URL to article: https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2007/08/03/plans-to-increase-turbines/