March 9, 2011
England

Campaign group anger at revised Somerset wind farm plan

www.thisissomerset.co.uk 9 March 2011

Revised plans for a wind farm on the Somerset Levels, cutting the number of giant turbines from nine to five, have failed to impress objectors.

EDF Energy Renewables announced yesterday it has submitted a revised scheme to Sedgemoor District Council for its proposed wind farm at Withy End Farm, Puriton.

The 2MW turbines have been repositioned on the site using information from ecological surveys, to minimise the ecological and visual impact. The maximum height of the blades has risen from 121 metres to 126 metres.

The company’s decision to reduce the number follows an environmental impact assessment and consultations, including exhibitions and liaison with parish councils.

The company says it considers the number and size of turbines an appropriate balance between the need for renewable energy generation and wider environmental considerations.

The new scheme would meet the annual electricity requirements of approximately 5,500 homes.

Green energy firm Ecotricity has submitted a scheme for four turbines on the opposite side of the M5. Both are close to the villages of East and West Huntspill.

Huntspill Wind Farm Action Group is campaigning against both schemes and member Brian Crosby said: “I am not as badly affected as many. Wind farms are inefficient and there are much better ways of generating electricity.

Another member Julie Trott added: “They will still have an effect on migratory birds and a huge impact visually.”

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2011/03/09/campaign-group-anger-at-revised-somerset-wind-farm-plan/