December 16, 2010
England

Application for 18-turbine wind farm turned down after public opposition

Scunthorpe Telegraph, www.thisisscunthorpe.co.uk 16 December 2010

An application to build an 18-turbine wind farm has been thrown out after fierce public opposition.

Councillors sitting on the North Lincolnshire Planning Committee turned down RWE npower Renewables’ plans to erect the 125m high turbines at Horkstow, near South Ferriby.

Jenny Haynes, a Horkstow resident and member for the Campaign to Protect Rural England, said: “The wind farm would ruin the rural character of the land and destroy the Viking Way, which is a popular tourist spot.

“The harm it would cause to the landscape would not balance out the reason to reduce carbon emissions.”

The planning committee yesterday refused permission, and has proposed a subsequent meeting to discuss reasons behind the decision.

Councillor Rob Waltham supported the residents’ objections. He addressed the planning committee, asking members to visit the Saxby Wolds landscape to have a look for themselves.

Although it was acknowledged at the meeting the project would benefit the local economy, the planning committee still rejected on eight votes to five.

After the verdict Clare Wilson, England development manager for RWE npower Renewables, said: “This is obviously disappointing news for us and we are surprised that in this economic climate, North Lincolnshire Planning Committee has gone against its own planner’s recommendation for approval.

“We are equally surprised that the committee were unable to give us reasons for refusing the proposal at this time.

“We have the right to appeal this decision, which will incur significant costs on both sides, and we are currently considering our options.”

Mr Waltham said: “I am delighted that the residents’ voices have been heard and the planning committee have supported them.”

Neil Cameron, chairman for the campaign, said: “This has been a good day for us all, the local government, and also a good day for the rural community.

“I hope npower will listen to what has been said by democratically elected representatives.

“By listening I hope they do not appeal against the decision or resubmit a planning application.”

A date is yet to be determined for the reasons for refusal to be confirmed.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2010/12/16/application-for-18-turbine-wind-farm-turned-down-after-public-opposition/