July 2, 2013
Wales
Wales
Welsh secretary David Jones says giant wind turbines in Porthcawl “would have been thrown out in England”
South Wales Evening Post | July 2, 2013 | www.thisissouthwales.co.uk
South Wales Evening Post | July 2, 2013 | www.thisissouthwales.co.uk
Welsh Secretary David Jones has said two giant wind turbines in Porthcawl would probably have been thrown out if the application had been made in England.
Mr Jones told Conservative Party members that policies on renewable energy had changed there.
“In Wales there is an effective presumption in favour of wind farm developments,” he said.
“I am urging the Welsh government to follow the UK government’s lead on future wind farm developments.”
Renewable Energy Partnership was originally refused planning permission for the two 125-metre turbines at Newton Down.
However, this decision was overturned by a planning inspector despite widespread opposition.
Speaking at an event in Porthcawl, Mr Jones said: “We need the Welsh Government to adopt the new policy so there is less divergence on this between the two countries.
“We need to restore a more level playing field.
“We should be empowering Welsh communities in the same way that those in England are now empowered over whether such developments proceed in their areas,” he added.
There were 640 letters of objection and a petition signed by almost 1,200 people opposing the turbines.
Newton councillor Ken Watts, one of the main campaigners against the development, said: “It is wrong that the views of local people, through letters, the petition and their local councillors, have been ignored.”