September 14, 2011
England

Wind farm would spoil Wolds landscape, campaigners say

Hull Daily Mail, www.thisishullandeastriding.co.uk 14 September 2011

Campaigners are fighting plans for another wind farm in East Yorkshire amid fears it will blight the landscape.

A planning application has been submitted to East Riding Council for a nine-turbine scheme at Thornholme Field, near Bridlington.

Objectors have formed the Wolds Protection Group to challenge the proposed development for a site in the northern part of the Wolds.

It comes after 12 huge turbines were built in the same area at Lissett, only three miles away from Thornholme. Renewable energy business Wind Prospect Developments Ltd has drawn up plans for the scheme, which will generate electricity for more than 10,000 homes a year.

George Hornsey, group spokesman, said: “We are concerned about another wind farm so close to the one at Lissett.

“But our main fear is about the harmful effect it would have on the unspoilt northern Wolds landscape and rural communities.

“The decision relating to this planning application will be a defining moment for the Wolds across East Yorkshire.

“If it gets the go-ahead, it will open the floodgate for a rash of wind farms, which would engulf this lovely landscape.”

The group believe another wind farm in the Bridlington area would spoil the natural beauty of the coastline and discourage tourists.

Members are encouraging objectors to write to East Riding Council’s planning department voicing their concerns.

Mr Hornsey said: “The cumulative effect of wind turbines on the coastline and countryside around Bridlington can only be detrimental to the future of the area and tourism.”

Wind Prospect is hoping that the Beverley-based council will make a decision on the scheme by the end of the year. If approved, construction work would start in 2012 and take about nine to 12 months to complete.

Catherine Taggart, development manager, said: “We understand that a development of this nature has an impact on the local community.

“But we are encouraged by the level of support we have had from people in the area and hope they will make their voice heard over the next few months.”

For more information, visit www.thornholmefieldwindfarm. co.uk

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2011/09/14/wind-farm-would-spoil-wolds-landscape-campaigners-say/