November 23, 2012
England

Modest harm?

Beverley Guardian | 23 November 2012 | www.beverleyguardian.co.uk

Controversial proposals to build a 25 metre high wind turbine on the outskirts of Driffield have been given the green light in the wake of a planning inquiry.

The East Riding of Yorkshire Council refused permission for scheme amid fears that it would harm the character and appearance of the surrounding countryside.

But the decision was overturned on appeal, despite an acknowledgement by a Government planning inspector that the development would result in “modest harm” to the landscape.

Zoe Hill,appointed by the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, said: “While some modest harm has been identified in terms of the landscape, this is outweighed by the benefits derived from the provision of renewable energy.”

The appeal site stands in open agricultural land.

“As an objector notes, this attractive and interesting landscape has also gained attention because of David Hockney’s paintings,” explained Mrs Hill.

“This is a special landscape, as recognised in the Joint Structure Plan for Kingston Upon Hull and the East Riding of Yorkshire.”

The proposed wind turbine would be sited close to an existing turbine.

It would be screen in many views.

The inspector said: “A general objection has been made by members of the public and an action group on grounds of noise disturbance but this does not related to specific living condition issues. Noise impact on the character of the area would not be significant.”

There are a significant number of other wind turbines in the wider area.


URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2012/11/23/modest-harm/