May 6, 2011
England

Wind farm test mast rejected

Bridlington Free Press, www.bridlingtonfreepress.co.uk 5 May 2011

Campaigners against a proposed wind farm on the edge of the Wolds between Burton Fleming and Hunmanby got a taste of victory when Scarborough councillors threw out plans for a wind testing mast.

About 50 protesters with placards gathered outside Scarborough Town Hall ahead of a planning meeting last Thursday.

The protesters – including some from Burton Fleming – were there to show their objection to plans for the mast.

The test mast would be used by Banks Renewables to gauge the suitability of the site for a development of up to 14 large wind turbines.

The campaigners packed the public gallery of the main council chamber, while others sat downstairs to listen to the debate, which lasted more than an hour.

Hertford ward councillor Godfrey Allanson made a plea on behalf of the campaigners, who were also represented by Coun Michelle Donohue-Moncrieff, vice-chairman of Hunmanby Parish Council and chairman of the No To Wolds Wind Farm group.

Phil Dyke, development director for Banks Renewables, spoke in favour of the plans, reiterating the point made by planning officers that the application had to be judged on its own merits, independent of any future plans for a wind farm.

As various speakers were jeered or applauded, committee chairman Coun Jane Mortimer responded by threatening the audience with expulsion.

However, the campaigners were allowed to stay until a majority decision was reached to reject the planning application.

The decision was made against the advice of planning officers.

“We’re absolutely delighted”, said Steve Hey, of Fordon.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2011/05/06/wind-farm-test-mast-rejected/