By Karen Evans, News & Star, www.newsandstar.co.uk 24 November 2010
A public inquiry into Allerdale council’s decision to refuse Renewable Energy Systems UK (RES) permission for six wind turbines in Tallentire began yesterday.
The seven day inquiry, at the Oval Centre, in Salterbeck, Workington, is being held after RES lodged an appeal to build the 100m-tall turbines at Hill Farm, near Cockermouth.
The controversial plans have caused a backlash from local residents, parish councillors and leader of Cumbria County Council Eddie Martin who feel it will spoil the views of the landscape and the quality of life for residents.
The inquiry began with evidence from Paul Macrae, senior landscape planner of Land Use Consultants, who was hired by Allerdale council to carry out a report on the site.
Mr Macrae said the company’s plans to build the farm would have a significant effect on views from the north east and the south east of the site and encroach on the view of the natural landmark of Skiddaw.
But Patrick Robinson, of Burges Salmon, cross examining the witness, saidonly three out of 31 of the views would be affected by the build of the wind farm.
Resident Ian McCain, of Tallentire, said: “I am not even going to try to guess how this will pan out.”
The inquiry, chaired by planning inspector George Baird, continues.
URL to article: https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2010/11/24/wind-turbines-inquiry-begins-after-backlash/