June 30, 2012
England

Villagers revolt against wind farm

Grantham Journal | www.granthamjournal.co.uk 30 June 2012

Villagers north of Grantham were informed this week of plans to construct huge, industrial-sized wind turbines near their homes.

RWE Npower is proposing to build five turbines on land at Temple Hill, south-west of Brandon and north of Hougham. They will have a max height from base to tip of 126.5m (415ft).

Villagers living within a 5km radius of the proposed site received a letter from the company informing them that they have “recently started to investigate the potential for a wind farm development on land west of Brandon”.

A protest group – called reVOLT (rural economies and Voters Oppose Loveden Turbines) – has already been formed to campaign against the plans.

Secretary of reVOLT Vikki Hoole said: “We support viable renewable energy schemes but oppose industrial scale wind farms in a sensitive rural landscape.

“We want to protect local amenities, heritage assets, dwellings and businesses. We want to ensure that the local community is involved at all stages and we want to ensure that the scoping and planning application processes are rigorous and fair.

“We shall aim to oppose the proposed wind farm through constructive and rational debate.”

Lincolnshire County Council has taken an outspoken stand against the “unrestrained invasion of wind turbines across Lincolnshire” in recent weeks.

Councillor Richard Davies, who represents Grantham North West, said: “We are supportive of renewable energy sources and are not opposed to all wind farms, but there has been a proliferation in the county in recent years. The wishes of our residents must be respected and remain at the forefront of any decision making process.

“We await any formal approaches, as a possible consultee, in due course with details of the proposals.”

Sarah Lee of RWE Npower said early results show the site may be suitable for a wind farm but further studies would need to be carried out.

She added: “Throughout the project, we will aim to keep everyone informed of our plans. As a responsible developer we understand how important it is to work closely with the local communities.

“We will be consulting with the local community.”

lAnyone who would like to have their say on the proposal can contact RWE Npower at templehill@rwe.com or reVOLT on templehillwindfarm@hotmail.com

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2012/06/30/villagers-revolt-against-wind-farm/