June 20, 2014
England

Bridgnorth turbine plans recommended for refusal

Shropshire Star | June 19, 2014 | www.shropshirestar.com

Plans to build two wind turbines in a Shropshire beauty spot have been recommended for refusal.

The 77-metre turbines at Criddon Hall Farm, near Upton Cresset, Bridgnorth, have been the subject of huge opposition by campaigners including the Stop Bridgnorth Wind Farm group.

Shropshire Council has received more than 820 public comments about the proposals, put forward by Sharenergy, which will go before the South Planning Committee on Tuesday.

Campaigners have previously said the development would damage the scenery along the Jack Mytton Way and the nearby grade I listed Upton Cresset Hall.

The proposals were originally for two turbines of 80m, but this was reduced after objections by the Ministry of Defence who said it could cause interference to military radar at Clee Hill.

The plans have also attracted objections from Morville Parish Council and Neenton Parish Council.

English Heritage have also objected to the proposals as the location of the turbines would cause significant harm to the historic environment.

A spokesman for the Stop Bridgnorth Windfarm Group, said: “The two 77m metre wind turbines are the largest, in terms of combined height, in the south Shropshire area.

“It would completely dominate and overwhelm the surrounding area in particular people walking along or riding along the Jack Mytton Way.

“It would completely change the character of this tranquil, beautiful part of Shropshire.

“We are delighted that the inspectors have recommended it for refusal.”

In a report to councillors, case officer Grahame French said: “The scale and location of the proposed turbine would have an unacceptably adverse effect on the character and scenic quality of the local landscape, on the setting of local heritage assets including Upton Cresset Hall and also on local amenities and leisure and tourism interest, including equestrian use of the Jack Mytton Way.”

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2014/06/20/bridgnorth-turbine-plans-recommended-for-refusal/