Applicants withdraw wind turbine bid on moor due to public pressure

Credit: By Chris Tate, T&A Reporter | Bradford Telegraph and Argus | 19th March 2014 | www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk ~~

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Public pressure and town council opposition has defeated plans for a 45-metre turbine on the moors at Denholme.

The owners of Denholme Business Centre in Halifax Road have officially withdrawn the proposal and openly apologised for any distress caused by the scheme to local folk.

The site already has approval for a 1,000-panel solar farm, but town councillors felt this high-profile attempt to make the site 100 per cent “green” was a step too far.

Airedale anti-windfarm activists also campaigned strongly against the idea as it was for an unspoilt area of moorland.

Yesterday one of the business centre’s owners, Simi Sekhon attended Denholme Town Council and issued a full apology for the turbine proposal, which has now been cancelled.

Speaking before the meeting he explained how the U-turn was out of respect for popular opinion and due to an initial misunderstanding of the town council’s stance.

“Following more discussions with the town council and mayor we have decided to withdraw the application,” Mr Sekhon said.

“We have absolute respect for the council and people of Denholme and if it would damage the views where they live so significantly then we have to respect that too.

“We would sincerely apologise for any stress or upset the proposal may have caused people,” Mr Sekhon said.

Many of the 40 firms which operate from Denholme Business Centre were keen on the turbine which would have let them market products as made with 100 per cent green energy.

“That is something we still aim to achieve and will be in consultation with the town council regarding our renewable energy strategy,” Mr Sekhon added.

Denholme mayor Councillor Steve Nunn said he was most impressed by Mr Sekhon’s attitude.

“It takes some strength to accept they have upset people and then to come and listen to those people and the town council,” Coun Nunn said. “We can only solve issues by talking. It’s no good hiding behind letters and documents.

“The council is keen for Denholme Business Centre to thrive and we will continue to support anything that gives local employment.”

Coun Nunn added this was the third wind turbine scheme which the council had successfully opposed.

Source: By Chris Tate, T&A Reporter | Bradford Telegraph and Argus | 19th March 2014 | www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk

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