July 30, 2008
Wales
Wales
Strong opposition to a wind farm in Brechfa was voiced by councillors at a recent meeting.
They said a wind farm would devastate the countryside and tourism in the area.
Councillors raised fears before receiving a guidance document on how to deal with wind farm applications.
The guidance was given ahead of expected wind farm development in Brechfa.
County councillor for Llanfihangel ar Arth, Linda Evans, was particularly concerned.
“A wind farm would be devastating for the area. Brechfa attracts a lot of tourists – especially now with the new bike track,” she argued.
“Developments like this could be disastrous and we don’t want one here.”
Councillor Peter Hughes Griffiths agreed.
“Wind farms of this size are just too big,” he said.
The Brechfa Forest has been identified by the Assembly as a suitable area for major wind farm development in the period up to 2010.
The guidance is to encourage developers to think about the local environment when planning the wind farms.
Wind farm case officer David Poulter agreed that such developments would affect the area.
“It will also have a visual impact when viewed from large parts of north Carmarthenshire,” he added.
“These wind farm developments provide a unique opportunity to secure environmental benefits which, at least partially, offset the visual impact on more panoramic views.
“Land in the areas most suitable for wind farm development has the potential to enhance biodiversity, promote storage of carbon and conserve and enhance landscape features.”
The guidance also looks at the issue of open space – including Mynydd Llanllwni, Mynydd Llanybydder and Mynydd Llanfihangel Rhos-y-Corn, and the impact it would have on people’s enjoyment of it.
The guidance is for the period ending in 2010 as part of the Assembly planning advice and the Carmarthenshire Local Development Plan.
This is still in the early stages of preparation.
India Pollock
30 July 2008
URL to article: https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2008/07/30/storm-blows-up-over-wind-farm-plans/