June 12, 2014
England

Planning: Thorney wind farm plans thrown into doubt by call-in decision

Peterborough Telegraph | 12 June 2014 | www.peterboroughtoday.co.uk

Controversial plans to build a wind farm in Thorney have been thrown into doubt after government officials confirmed the application is to be called-in for review.

The PT reported how villagers had reacted angrily after permission to build four 100 metre high wind turbines at French Farm in French Drove, near Thorney, was granted by Peterborough City Council planning committee in February.

But following complaints from Peterborough MP Stewart Jackson, officials acting on behalf of the Secretary of State for local government Eric Pickles, confirmed they will now review the bid, which could lead to it being blocked.

Mr Jackson said: “There was great public concern at the decision of Peterborough City Council to grant this application in February, despite the opposition of many local people and their representatives.

“I am naturally pleased that my lobbying to persuade the Secretary of State to call in the application has been successful and I hope that the public inquiry finds that this is an unsuitable development and it is rejected by the planning inspector in due course”.

Applicants REG Energy, who already have permission for two turbines on the site, say the whole development will produce enough power for 6,000 homes.

A spokesperson for REG Energy said: “We are very surprised at this decision as the planning application was voted in by democratically elected councillors who debated the issue thoroughly for four hours.”

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2014/06/12/planning-thorney-wind-farm-plans-thrown-into-doubt-by-call-in-decision/