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Ipstones turbine opposed
Credit: By Leslie Jackson | Leek Post & Times | February 26, 2014 | www.leek-news.co.uk ~~
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Plans to erect a wind turbine at Ipstones Edge has been recommended for refusal by planning officers.
The application for the turbine, which would have an overall height of 17.75 metres (58 feet) is on land at Rock House Farm.
It would be sited to the south east of a group of buildings associated with the farm, including the farmhouse.
Five letters of objection have been received which raise concerns that the turbine would not be in keeping with the rural character; have a negative effect on the tourist industry; pose risk to wildlife and ecology; and that it would open the floodgates to more such schemes in the area.
Ipstones Parish Council has also objected to the scheme on the grounds of visual impact and it being unneighbourly.
The parish council also states it is concerned that there are getting too many turbines in the area which will have a visual impact on the countryside around them.
Staffordshire Moorlands District Council’s ecology officer has objected on the grounds that there is a lack of information with regard to bat activity.
In a report to members of the planning committee, planning officer Jane Curley, said: “The turbine is a relatively slim design and would be close to several lattice telecommunication mast structures which sit on higher ground towards the ridge top and tend to dominate the skyline.
“Thus while the turbine would inevitably introduce an urban feature into this rural landscape, its scale, design and siting lead to the view that it would not compromise the key characteristics of this particular landscape, even recognising the sensitivity of the landscape to change.”
It is noted that the turbine would be noticeable on the B5053 at Bottom Lane and also visible in some views from the Alton Road.
From the main A523 Leek to Ashbourne Road views of the turbine would be visible, but the views would be some distance and seen against the hillside, it is stated in the planning officer’s report.
In recommending refusal Mrs Curley said: “There is clear national policy support for renewable energy which weighs heavily in favour of the development.
“Nevertheless, the Government’s intention is not that all renewable energy schemes should be supported irre spective of any harm that might be caused.
“In this particular case insufficient information has been provided to demonstrate that the proposed turbine would not have an adverse impact on bats, a protected species.
“The report omits to consider the close neighbouring farm premises which are within a 50 to 150 metre radius to the south west of the site.”
A decision on the proposal will be taken by Staffordshire Moorlands District Council’s planning applications committee when it meets tomorrow, Thursday.
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