April 25, 2014
England

Impact of wind turbine would outweigh benefit, says planning report

By Jenny Barwise | News & Star | 24 April 2014 | www.newsandstar.co.uk

Opponents of a planned wind turbine look set to win the fight to stop the development.

Six parish councils have formally objected to plans to build the turbine, which would be the height of nearly 20 double decker buses, on land near Allonby.

And at an Allerdale council meeting on Tuesday, members are being advised by planning officers to refuse the scheme for West End Farm, Edderside, who say the landscape impact of the 76m turbine would outweigh its environmental benefit.

The earmarked land is mostly surrounded by open fields, however, there are a number of houses in the immediate locality.

Paul Roper, of Edderside Hall, said he purchased his property because of its “unspoilt rural location and spectacular views” which would be significantly impacted by the proposed turbine.

In a letter of objection to the council, Mr Roper said: “It would seem that the proposed turbine brings little positive advantage to the area, but considerable disadvantage in terms of significant visual and noise impact locally together with detrimental effects on the local ecology and economy.”

Another objector, Susan Wasilewski of Rosley Road at Wigton, said Allerdale now hosts 70 per cent of the county’s wind turbines.

“Cumulative affect is therefore an issue,” she said.

“It is time to call a halt to these machines which are a blight on the landscape and very destructive.”

In total, six nearby parish councils, nine residents, Natural England, Westnewton Action Group, The Solway Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Friends of Rural Cumbria’s Environment have objected to the application.

However, five letters of support have also been lodged with the council.

John Scott, of Edderside, has written in support, saying he has “no concerns” about the turbine.

The officer’s report to councillors, says that the size and scale of the turbine would be adversely overwhelming, overbearing and oppressive to nearby properties, making them an unattractive place to live.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2014/04/25/impact-of-wind-turbine-would-outweigh-benefit-says-planning-report/