April 23, 2012
England

Turbine plan is rejected by majority

Scarborough Evening News, www.scarborougheveningnews.co.uk 23 April 2012

A proposed wind turbine on farmland in Scalby has been refused following a groundswell of public opposition.

Dean Tully had hoped to install one on his land at Scalby Hayes, off Barmoor Lane, to generate green energy to power his business and feed into the National Grid.

But officers had recommended that the plan be refused permission because of the scale and impact on the surrounding environment.

Derek Green, one of Scarborough Council’s planning officers, told members of the planning committee that the site was very close to the North York Moors National Park. He added: “You will see from the report that the impact will be considerable.”

Michelle Robertson, speaking on behalf of the applicant’s agent, said that less than two per cent of local households had made objections to the plan and added: “The applicant is committed to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.”

But David Sharp, who spoke on behalf of local residents, said that if the turbine was approved it would destroy local businesses and was just a money grabbing exercise.

Cllr Brian Watson said: “I can’t support this application – it’s just a blot on the landscape.”

And Cllr Herbert Tindall agreed. He said: “I am disturbed by this application. It’s far too large for the area. I will find it hard to force my arm to go up in favour of this application. Had it been a smaller one then I would’ve considered it.”

Cllr Godfrey Allanson added that he was concerned about the number of applications that were being submitted for wind turbines – which were now much bigger than earlier models. He said: “It really has a terrific impact on that area.”

Cllr John Flinton said that he was concerned that the proposed site was on a hill. He added: “This one is particularly prominent on the skyline.”

All members voted against the plan with the exception of one abstention.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2012/04/23/turbine-plan-is-rejected-by-majority/