December 3, 2012
England

Joy for campaigners in fight against pig farmer’s village wind turbine plans

Market Rasen Mail | 3 December 2012 | www.marketrasenmail.co.uk

More than 30 campaigners fighting a pig farmer’s wind turbine planning application turned out for a West Lindsey committee meeting to show their strength of feeling.

Ermine Farms Ltd’s application for two 35m wind turbines at Heath Farm in Normanby by Spital had been recommended for approval subject to conditions.

But West Lindsey District Council planners have now agreed to do a site visit following a presentation by leading campaigner Richard Armstrong.

Richard said: “From a results perspective, I think we are at half time and it’s currently a score-draw.

“Given that we are the underdogs, however, this has to be a great result so far.”

He added: “We have got the planning committee wanting more time and the proposed site visit can only help us, as all the photomontages go out the window and they actually see what is going on and where.”

Residents are concerned about the impact turbines would have on wildlife, horses, house prices and views of the open countryside.

Campaigner Malcolm Worth said: “I hope it brought home to the committee just how strong the level of feeling is becoming across the district.”

A supporting statement in Ermine Farms Ltd’s planning application said: “Pig farming in the UK has come under increased pressure from rising feed costs and retailers are seeking to ensure high environmental performance of their suppliers and are keen to see onsite energy generation.”

A site visit will take place at 10am on Wednesday, December 12.

The application will then go to the planning committee on January 9 next year.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2012/12/03/joy-for-campaigners-in-fight-against-pig-farmers-village-wind-turbine-plans/