August 9, 2013
England

New twist in Oulton wind turbine saga

Sophie Wyllie | Eastern Daily Press | August 8, 2013 | www.edp24.co.uk

Campaigners against a controversial turbine application are “quietly hopeful” it will not go ahead after villagers raised concerns about its potential impact on the landscape.

The plan for the 77m-high structure on the disused second world war airfield in Oulton, near Aylsham, was submitted to Broadland District Council by Bernard Matthews Wind Energy Co-operative in February.

Oulton parish councillor Sam Booker claimed Broadland planning officer Matthew Rooke wrote to the agent, Farmwind, on August 1 asking for “outstanding information” on how concerns would be addressed by August 15.

A Broadland spokesman confirmed the applicant and agent could withdraw the plan, but there was no timescale for that.

She added: “The plan might not have to go to committee if there is not enough information [from the applicant] and it could be refused under officer powers.”

Mr Booker said: “The main concerns were that it was too close to people’s houses and the negative effects on the landscape would outweigh any positive effects from the turbine. It could also have a potential impact on tourism.”

He added: “Nobody wants to count their chickens about the turbine but the villagers are quietly hopeful the plan will be withdrawn.”

Oulton Parish Council has objected, as has the MoD because of concerns the turbine would interfere with the Air Defence radar at Trimingham, near Cromer.

Paul Rea, spokesman for Energy4All which is behind the proposal, said: “ We welcome feedback from all interested parties as part of the planning process for the proposed single community wind turbine at Oulton and will address any concerns raised in the letter from Broadland District Council.”

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2013/08/09/new-twist-in-oulton-wind-turbine-saga/