Residents prepare for next stage in battle against wind turbine at Walkers’ factory in Skelmersdale
Credit: by Michael Byrne, Skelmersdale Advertiser, www.osadvertiser.co.uk 22 March 2012 ~~
Residents who fought against plans to install a wind turbine at the Walkers Factory have started the next stage of their campaign.
West Lancashire Council’s Planning committee rejected the scheme earlier this month.
But people living close to the site fear Walkers’ parent company PepsiCo will appeal against the decision.
With this in mind one of the campaigners, Alan Horridge, has written to the company with a series of concerns.
In his letter Mr Horridge said: “An anemometer was used to verify information on wind speed. This was granted a time limited permission which expired on August 30, 2008. But the structure was not taken down.
“Regulations call for any proposals of this nature to be consulted with, amongst others, the local community. By any dictionary definition there was no consultation.
“We will be tabling these and many other issues where, we believe, the company has acted in a less than acceptable manner which brings disrepute to the company, should an appeal go ahead.”
A PepsiCo spokesman said: “For many years, PepsiCo has sought to reduce its carbon footprint both here in the UK and around the world.
“Skelmersdale is a very important site for PepsiCo UK. Last year we were awarded Best Environmental Practice at the annual Lancashire Business Environment awards. Sustainability is close to our hearts and this is why we looked to harness the benefits of wind power on site.
“We did not propose a wind turbine lightly – much consideration and careful planning has taken place and we have sought to engage at all levels over the six-month consultation period.
‘‘We were delighted when the application was recommended for approval by planning officers, but very disappointed when it was rejected by the planning committee.’’
The spokesman added: ‘‘Whilst there is no formal decision about our future plans as yet, I would reiterate that PepsiCo UK is still committed to delivering sustainable growth in Skelmersdale and our other UK sites.”
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