February 8, 2008
Wales
Wales
Horse riders in Mid Wales have hit out at plans to site a wind farm in a wildlife-rich forestry area. There are fears the scheme would harm rare plants and wildlife, as well as a thriving equestrian tourism project.
Dyfnant & Vyrnwy Horse Riding & Carriage Driving Association vice-chairman Susan Wilkinson said the scheme in Dyfnant Forest, near Lake Vyrnwy, would destroy an expanding industry which was launched with Government and European money following the 2001 foot and mouth crisis.
Mrs Wilkinson said: “Putting wind turbines two thirds the height of Blackpool Tower here will put an end to any equestrian activities because horses are totally spooked by these turbines.
“Thousands of pounds of European money has been invested here, but if this plan for turbines goes ahead it will become a wind farm ghetto and a place no tourists will want to visit.”
Aaron Fortt, for the Forestry Commission, said the forest fell within one of the strategic search areas identified for possible wind farm development by the Welsh Assembly Government.
He said: “The Forestry Commission manages the land for the Welsh Assembly Government and we are currently carrying out a procurement exercise for the Assembly to find the best energy company prior to a planning application being submitted.”
8 February 2008
URL to article: https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2008/02/08/horse-lovers-criticise-turbines/