December 4, 2013
England

Protestors win turbine battle

Look Local | www.looklocal.org.uk

Protestors in Stocksbridge and surrounding areas, along with ramblers and angling groups, are celebrating victory in their campaign to stop two wind turbines being built. The controversial planning application for two large wind turbines at Hollin Edge near Stockbridge was refused planning consent at a packed meeting of Sheffield City Council’s planning committee on Tuesday November 26.

Councillors overwhelmingly backed a report recommending refusal on the grounds that the turbines would have a detrimental impact on the Green Belt and the nearby Peak District National Park.

The Upper Don Action Group (UDAG) has led a campaign against the siting of the turbines and one of their members, John Hesketh, welcomed the refusal decision. He said: “It is a victory for commonsense and a victory for local people, including those who use the Ewden Valley for recreational purposes.

“Wind turbines can play a part in power generation, but care must be taken with sensitive locations.”

The two 114ft turbines, each were earmarked for an elevated spot in the Green Belt overlooking More Hall reservoir and the Peak District National Park.

Almost 200 people had logged an objection on the Council’s planning website. MP, Angela Smith, had registered her opposition, along with two Ward Councillors and the majority of Stocksbridge Town Councillors.

Letters of objection were received from Bradfield, Hunshelf and Langsett Parish Councils.

Opposition had also come from the Peak District National Park, More Hall Fly Fishing Club, Stocksbridge Ramblers, Sheffield Wildlife Trust as well as local history and archaeology groups.

Stocksbridge Town Councillor and Deepcar resident Jack Clarkson said at the meeting: “The large turbines would have a lasting impact on the heritage of the Ewden valley and would spoil the tranquil character of the area.”

Angela Smith MP said: “There is no doubt wind turbines will and should be part of the country’s energy mix, especially if we serious about de-carbonising our energy supply by 2050.

“However, saying that it does not mean that normal planning rules should be put one side and that we should allow this technology to destroy our most precious landscapes.

“It was obvious to most local people that this location was not suitable for such an intrusive development and I am pleased planning board members came to the same conclusion and common sense has prevailed.”


URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2013/12/04/protestors-win-turbine-battle/