December 17, 2013
England

MoD objects to Bullington Cross wind turbine plan

BBC News | 17 December 2013 | www.bbc.co.uk

A proposed wind farm in Hampshire has been branded “totally inappropriate” during a debate in the Commons.

EDF Energy wants to put up 14 turbines at Bullington Cross to generate electricity for up to 14,900 homes.

Defence Minister Andrew Murrison said the farm could interfere with radars and low flying operations.

Winchester MP Steve Brine said it would “compromise” armed forces personnel. EDF said “suitable measures” could be put in place to mitigate issues raised.

The Ministry of Defence has formally objected to the plan.

‘Higher than cathedral’

EDF had said the turbines would be at least 800m (2,600ft) from the nearest properties and no more than about 125m high (410ft).

Darren Cumming, project manager of the scheme, also said the scheme had been scaled back from 17 turbines following a public consultation.

In a statement, EDF said: “We intend to work closely with the MoD so that suitable planning conditions can be placed on the project to ensure the safe operation of all aviation traffic in the local area.”

It said Bullington Cross was an “excellent site” for a wind farm.

“In addition we are working closely with the Hampshire Renewable Energy Co-operative on a deal that could secure a 10% community ownership stake in the project,” the statement read.

During the debate, Mr Murrison said the turbines could affect radars at Middle Wallop and Boscombe Down.

Conservative MP Mr Brine told the Commons: “The minister and I agree it is totally inappropriate.

“The training of armed forces personnel is compromised by turbines which will actually be higher than Winchester’s great cathedral.”

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2013/12/17/mod-objects-to-bullington-cross-wind-turbine-plan/