October 3, 2012
England

Sellindge residents protest against wind farm plans

Dean Kilpatrick, Reporter | www.kentnews.co.uk 3 October 2012

Villagers fighting plans to build 410ft wind turbines near their homes have gathered together to protest against the proposals.

Hundreds of Sellindge residents joined forces to outline the size of the turbines which could power 11,800 homes a year according to the company behind the plans.

Organisers of the protest hope the images will help represent how large the proposed turbines will be and the impact it could have on locals.

Sellindge & District Residents Association chairman Roland Lello said: “It came about when an old couple said we needed a competition in this village.

“The idea developed and we wanted to bring it to the attention of how huge these machines are going to be and how they will be towering down upon us all.”

There are fears the turbines, which will be around the same size as the London Eye, will have a serious effect on the local environment and hamper house prices.

It is now hoped the images will help bring in support from neighbouring villages, which Mr Lello said would also be impacted by the proposed green energy turbines.

However, the company behind the project said the site was “highly appropriate”, and that a wind farm would benefit both the local community and the environment.

An Ecotricity spokesman said: “Of course, there is sometimes a fear of the unknown with new planning applications and we are aware of the recent action by the Residents Association and some local people.

“However, in public meetings with local residents, we received comments of strong support and we have has positive and constructive conversations with residents at both sessions in the village.

“Nonetheless, we are keen to express that those residents who do have outstanding concerns and more than welcome to contact us directly.”


URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2012/10/03/sellindge-residents-protest-against-wind-farm-plans/