May 23, 2008
England

Tesco turbines get OK

Controversial plans to install wind turbines on top of a Leyland supermarket have been approved despite the opposition of conservationists.

Supermarket giant Tesco wants to erect six environmentally-friendly generators on top of its Extra store on Towngate.

It will be one of the first in Lancashire to benefit from the technology.

The 2.5m high designs will be placed on to the parapets of the superstore and take advantage of the winds.

The electricity generated will be used to power tills, lights and security systems, cutting its carbon footprint in the process.

Each turbine is expected to last around 15 years. A similar scheme is already in place at the company’s branch in Bury.

But the store lies next to the Leyland Cross Conservation Area, housing some of the town’s most historic buildings.

23 May 2008