March 18, 2013
England

Anti-wind farm campaigners seek powerful support

Sleaford Standard | 18 March 2013 | www.sleafordstandard.co.uk

Local campaigners against the latest wind farm proposal for the area welcomed VIPs from all parts of our democratic system to highlight the impact it will have on their landscape.

Members of REVOLT (Rural Economies and Voters Oppose Loveden Turbines) gathered at Stubton Village Hall to give the politicians a tour of the proposed site for five wind turbines at Temple Hill, near Brandon, Caythorpe, and demonstrate potential impact on the Trent Valley.

A planning application is about to be submitted to South Kesteven District Council by RWE NPower Renewables.

The group of visitors included MEP Roger Helmer, Lord Radice, MPs Stephen Phillips and Chris Heaton-Harris, leader of the county council Martin Hill, Coun Paul Wood of SKDC, plus parish councillors.

A blimp was flown to demonstrate the tip height of the proposed turbines at 126.5ft.

Sleaford and North Hykeham MP Stephen Phillips referred to his support for minimum separation distances of 2km between wind farms and homes: “My constituents are properly concerned that turbines have an overwhelming and oppressive visual impact, quite aside from the health concerns about wind farms which are too often brushed under the carpet. I therefore believe that minimum separation distances are appropriate, and this fact alone makes the Temple Hill proposal inappropriate.”

Coun Martin Hill said: “The decision here could establish an ominous precedent for further wind energy development across this swathe of Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire.”

Coun Paul Wood from South Kesteven District Council said tourism relied on unspoilt countryside and open views. “This development could result in job losses and would not create any permanent local jobs to compensate.”

Revolt spokesman Paul Miley added: “Revolt was formed to represent the vast majority of residents in and around Loveden who are concerned at the apparent uncontrolled expansion of industrial developments into rural areas. Legitimate issues such as the impact on local employment, health and finances are ignored. But of more concern is that even with every level of our democratically elected representatives opposed to this proposal, the decision about whether or not this wind farm is built will ultimately come down to an unelected, government-appointed planning inspector.”

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2013/03/18/anti-wind-farm-campaigners-seek-powerful-support/