August 7, 2013
Wales

Meeting hears concern over wind turbine plan

By Guto Llewelyn | Carmarthen Journal | August 07, 2013 | www.thisissouthwales.co.uk

More than a hundred residents of Ferwig and Gwbert have attended a heated public meeting to discuss ways of opposing a proposed 67 metre wind turbine.

Local company Awel Deg wants to build the turbine in Ferwig but many locals have expressed concerns that it will blight the local scenery, devalue property and negatively affect tourism in the area.

The meeting at Cardigan Golf Club on Monday was billed as a chance to discuss ways residents could get their voices heard.

Last week the golf club threatened to sue Huw Jones, who owns the land where Awel Deg want to build the turbine, for £1 million if the club loses its championship status as a result of the turbine being built.

Among those who attended the meeting was chairman of Awel Deg, David Gillam, who quickly found himself questioned by angry residents.

Many people queried Awel Deg’s previous assertion that around three quarters of the local population was in favour of the turbine.

Mr Gillam justified the building of the turbine by saying it would create jobs and income for the area. Residents claim the damage to the local tourism industry would cost more jobs than the turbine would create.

Colin Osbourne, who led the meeting, said: “I thank David for turning up and fielding questions, but once again I think many people here feel they are not being listened to.”

Mr Gillam said Awel Deg would re-consider its plans if it could be proved that the majority of locals were opposed to the turbine.

The concession was cautiously welcomed by residents, although it is still unclear how locals will be polled for their opinions.

Mr Osbourne called on those opposed to the project to club together and show a united front.

He ended the meeting by telling attendees: “I will say this. If you do nothing and spend nothing then please never complain.”


URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2013/08/07/meeting-hears-concern-over-wind-turbine-plan/