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Ince Blundell villagers prepare for long wind farm fight
Credit: Sep 26 2013 by Jamie Bowman, Crosby Herald | www.crosbyherald.co.uk ~~
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Villagers in Ince Blundell united this week to fight a controversial wind farm plan.
Some 160 people turned up at a public meeting to hear about controversial proposals to erect 24 wind turbines on land between Formby, Ince Blundell and Lydiate.
A pressure group called HALT has been formed to lead the fight against Coriolis Energy who are expected to submit plans for the 136.5m towers to West Lancashire Borough Council next month.
Villagers’ fears have also been heightened following the publication of Sefton Council’s Local Plan which included a study into the possibility of allowing further wind turbines to be built on land to the west of the village.
Those attending the meeting heard from HALT’s Kevin Sharpe who told residents their village was “under attack”.
He said: “The idea that the Lord Leverhulme Estate, who own this land, is trying to save the planet is nonsense.
“This is not a charitable exercise but is a money making project.”
Mr Sharpe, and his colleague Colin Reader, went on to outline the main issues which they believe will help Ince Blundell fight the proposals.
“The main reason not to build this farm here is based on ecology. This is grade A agricultural land, renowned throughout the country so why would you want to rip it up for a temporary structure to be put in place?
“You can also look at wildlife, at recreation, and Sefton Council’s pledge to build tourism in the area.
“This will not bring tourism here – it will just be a blot on the landscape.”
Mr Sharpe also suggested that West Lancashire Council was attempting to build the wind farm in a remote area where there would not be many objections from local residents.
“It certainly feels to us that West Lancs are parking this in a corner to satisfy their energy targets.”
HALT are now asking villagers for donations to help them fund their campaign which has seen the group erect a 40ft x 10ft banner close to the Formby Bypass and build a website.
Mr Sharpe added: “It is obvious that this will be a long hard slog but we are hoping that interest will not wane away.
“You never really know who is going to turn up for these events but it is clear from tonight how strongly people feel in this village about these proposals.
“It’s very encouraging because there is no point objecting to something if you are standing on your own.”
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