November 12, 2011
England

People vote against wind turbine proposal

Evening Telegraph, www.northantset.co.uk 12 November 2011

People from Wollaston have voted against plans for two wind turbines to be put up in their village.

A public meeting was called in response to an application to build two 233ft tall turbines in a field off Hinwick Road.

Protesters, who have formed a ‘Say No to Wollaston Windfarm’ campaign group spoke out against the plans at the meeting, held at Wollaston Village Hall on Thursday night.

A panel of speakers also gave their thoughts about the scheme.

They included Dr Mike Goldsmith, from Wollaston, who said: “I think this is an unnecessary development for the village. We have a beautiful village in a beautiful part of Northamptonshire and many of us don’t want a large blot on the landscape.

“I think there are more natural ways of being ecological in Wollaston. I think putting up windmills is the wrong thing to do.”

East Midlands MEP Derek Clark also spoke against the plans. He said: “My objection is that they don’t work – windmills only produce any power for 30 per cent of the time.”

James Fulton, of Berry Brothers Property Services, the agent for applicant Chris Sumner, spoke in favour of the application and said the turbines “would extend the long term sustainability of Mr Sumner’s business.

He added: “The turbines are tall, but they were specifically chosen for their visual impact.”

People who live in the village also gave their views.

Paul Bateman, of York Road, Wollaston, said: “I came to this village because it was a beautiful village and unspoilt. Now we are going to spoil the village for two wind turbines.”

A vote was taken at the end of the meeting and 74 people voted against the scheme, three said they were in favour and seven abstained.

The application has been submitted to Wellingborough Council’s planning committee. It is expected to be heard on November 30.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2011/11/12/people-vote-against-wind-turbine-proposal/