May 14, 2012
England

Raywell wind turbine would pose ‘significant danger’ to horse riders

Hull Daily Mail, www.thisishullandeastriding.co.uk 14 May 2012

A wind turbine plan will be examined by councillors after concerns the generator could blight views across the Wolds.

Windberry Energy wants to build a 61m turbine at Raywell, near Swanland.

It would be used to reduce electricity costs for a nearby farm.

But the proposal has met with opposition from 26 neighbours and two parish councils.

David Evison said he was concerned the turbine would pose “a significant level of danger” to horse riders on nearby bridle ways.

In a submission to planners, Mr Evison said: “As there is already an 18m turbine within the vicinity but located further from the bridle way, this does provide an indication of the these dangers.

“My family have had direct experiences of our horses spooking against this machine and refuse now to use the bridle way past this mast.”

He also voiced concerns about the turbine’s impact on views.

“The proposed turbine at 61m would be the most prominent structure for miles around and form a dominant centre to what are currently open views,” he said.

Both Skidby and Welton parish councils have objected to the development.

Derek Fairweather, Welton Parish Council planning administrator, said: “The structure will be visible from many aspects and at far greater distances than the applicant claims.

“In short, it will be a blot on the horizon and will be seriously detrimental to the character and amenity value of the area.

“We urge the strategic planning committee to reject this outrageous application.”

Skidby Council said: “The proposed turbine is about 300m from the Wolds Way National Trail. Walkers coming from Hessle will be travelling with the turbine directly in their vision for well over a kilometre, which is unlikely to add to their enjoyment of this well-publicised walk.”

The application was referred to East Riding Council’s planning committee by Councillor Julie Abraham because of its potential impact on views over the Wolds.

However, 16 members of the public also wrote to planners in support of the turbine.

One was Mike Beaumont, who said he regularly walked nearby.

“I am in favour of this as it will provide clean renewable energy and support local businesses,” he said.

In his report to councillors, director of planning Alan Menzies recommended the turbine be approved.

“It is considered that the proposals would not significantly diminish the intrinsic character of the local landscape beyond the immediate vicinity of the turbine site,” he said.

The East Riding Council planning committee will make a decision on Thursday.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2012/05/14/raywell-wind-turbine-would-pose-significant-danger-to-horse-riders/