April 1, 2013
Australia

Local MP, environment group object to windfarm

By Natalie Whiting | ABC News | Updated Mon Apr 1, 2013 | www.abc.net.auBy Natalie Whiting | ABC News | Updated Mon Apr 1, 2013 | www.abc.net.au

Central west environment groups are split on a proposal which could see more than 100 wind turbines built in the area.

140 public submissions have been made on the Crudine Ridge Wind Farm, with more than 100 opposing the development.

The proposal would see between 70 and 110 turbines built between Mudgee and Bathurst.

The Rylstone District Environment Society says it supports the wind farm because it will help reduce Australia’s contribution to global warming.

In its submission the group says using energy from wind rather than coal will also help save water, but the Crudine Ridge Environment Protection Group has objected to the development.

It says it is concerned about the impact the development will have on native animals including Koalas, birds and bats.

The Member for Orange Andrew Gee says he does not want to see the development go ahead.

In his submission Mr Gee says he’s concerned about the impact on local roads and the proximity of the turbines to homes.

The Bathurst Regional Council and the Mid-Western Regional have made submissions on the wind farm but have not supported or objected to it.

However, the councils have also raised concerns about the impacts on local roads.

Both say the current road network is incapable of supporting the number of trucks needed for the project’s construction.

The submissions are now being reviewed by the proponent, Wind Prospect CWP.


URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2013/04/01/local-mp-environment-group-object-to-windfarm/