November 17, 2012
Wales

Llyn anti-wind turbine group steps up campaign

By Gareth Williams | Caernarfon Denbigh Herald | November 15, 2012 | www.caernarfonherald.co.uk

A group opposing the installation of wind turbines in Llyn and rural Gwynedd, has stepped up its campaign and are encouraging people to support them.

Cyfeillion Llyn is backing an online petition, opposing any wind turbine over 11 metres high within sight of the Llyn Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and 15 metres in the rest of Gwynedd without a full environmental assessment.

According to members of the group, this follows declarations by Dafydd Ellis Thomas AM and other Gwynedd councillors, who they say support turbines on the Llyn Peninsula.

This, says Cyfeillion Lln, is contrary to Gwynedd Council’s planning policies and the TAN 8 national guidelines on AONB policy.

Cyfeillion Llyn was set up in 1984 with the aim of promoting the Welsh language, bolster the economy and protect the environment of Llyn.

Sian Parri, from the group, said: “The direct and indirect effects of these turbines on the unique character of Lln are far-reaching, and it is a matter that everyone should be given the opportunity to comment upon.

“Several community councils in Dwyfor are also worried and agree there should have been wide public consultation before allowing any wind turbines in the area.

“As a group, we’re supportive of plans to create renewable energy in an appropriate way that’s within the legal framework and current planning policy.

“However, we are not supportive of large turbines on the Llyn Peninsula or other sensitive landscapes as they do not fall within the principles of planning policy and the protection of the rural environment against large-scale development.

“The decision-makers seem to be in a muddle while the beautiful landscape of Llyn is facing its biggest ever threat.

“We are especially concerned after a planning application was made for a 34 metre turbine within the Llyn AONB despite being totally against the Gwynedd Policy C26 which clearly states that ‘proposals for wind turbine developments within the Lln AONB will be refused’.”

Gwynedd Council was not available for comment by the time of going to press.

The petition can be viewed and signed by visiting dimgwynt.co.uk


URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2012/11/17/llyn-anti-wind-turbine-group-steps-up-campaign/