April 13, 2013
England

Wind farm study plea is rejected

Sheffield Telegraph | 13 April 2013 | www.sheffieldtelegraph.co.ukSheffield Telegraph | 13 April 2013 | www.sheffieldtelegraph.co.uk

Sheffield Greens want to see a feasibility study into wind power in the city.

But they have failed to convince the council to reopen investigations into a possible location at Westwood Country Park at High Green.

The idea of installing six turbines in the park was dropped five years ago after opposition from residents who said it was too near their homes.

Local Greens say it could still offer the best spot in Sheffield for a wind farm, but were unable to gain support from Labour or the Lib Dems. They maintain neither of the parties is doing enough to promote sustainable energy.

Green councillor Rob Murphy said: “With recent high energy prices, wind power offers real financial benefits to hard up communities. Our council should be jumping at the chance to bring investment and jobs to the city.

“It’s a real shame that in Sheffield only the Green Party are prepared to make the tough decisions needed to deal with the looming energy crisis.”

However, Labour cabinet member Coun Jack Scott said it was “typical posturing from the Greens” and the council was undertaking and supporting a number of renewable energy projects including biomass, solar thermal, solar PV and ground source heat pumps.

“We are committed to using renewable energy where we can, helping people to get cheaper energy through our ‘Big Sheffield Switch’ scheme, reducing waste generation, significant increases in recycling and a clear commitment to bring forward Sheffield’s first Climate Change Adaptation Strategy. All of this action highlights Sheffield’s place as a leading environmental city.

“We are doing everything we can to tackle the rising energy bills Sheffield people are facing, which have increased by £300 since the Coalition came to power.”

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2013/04/13/wind-farm-study-plea-is-rejected/