July 7, 2011
England

A storm is blowing over wind power

Halifax Courier, www.halifaxcourier.co.uk 7 July 2011

Villagers are rallying to oppose a bid to build two wind turbines in part of Calderdale.

A planning application has been submitted to install two turbines, each with a hub height of 49 metres, on a field west of Lower Hazel Hurst Farm at Cold Edge Road in Wainstalls, Halifax.

Some residents are adamant permission should not be granted and two meetings have so far been held by people concerned by the plans.

Rachel Taylor, who lives in the village and is one of around 20 opposing the plans, said: “They would be so imposing.“

She added the village already has a wind farm nearby. “As an area we’re doing our bit,” she said.

She is also concerned if permission was granted for these turbines, it could set a precedent for future bids.

And she said there was a worry for the impact the turbines might have on wildlife in the area.

The application has been made by Curran Renewables.

Documents sent to the council say the turbines would contribute towards renewable energy targets.

A report submitted by the applicant’s agent, adds: “The client has lived at Lower Hazel Hurst Farm for three years. The site is not a work farm and therefore a significant amount of energy will be transported to the Grid, thus providing a wider community benefit.”

It also says: “A larger turbine with a taller mast and a larger blade sweep was considered at this site. However it was decided that two WES30 turbines on the proposed 49-metre masts could be absorbed into the existing landscape to a greater extent than a larger turbine model.

“The applicant feels that in order to use this technology to the best of its ability the most efficient turbine should be installed, whilst remaining conscious of landscape impact.”

The report also says that any impact on the character and visual appearance of the landscape “is outweighed by the benefits of this proposal”.

The turbines will last 25 years and be grey to match the English sky.

Anyone who wants to make a comment on the plans has until July 8 to do so.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2011/07/07/a-storm-is-blowing-over-wind-power/