July 3, 2014
England

Objectors’ delight as controversial turbine bid refused

Northumberland Gazette | 03 July 2014 | www.northumberlandgazette.co.uk

Objectors fighting plans to build a 78-metre-high wind turbine in a Northumberland beauty spot have spoken of their delight after the contentious scheme was refused on appeal.

Zoe Frais, of the Fight The Follions action group, said the decision to boot out the turbine – earmarked for land associated with Follions Farm, north west of Thropton – was a victory for local people.

She added: “It would have affected local people and the decision shows that we have been listened to and heard. The county’s countryside is our greatest asset and we must protect it.”

The original scheme sparked mass objection and was refused in August by Northumberland County Council’s planning and environment and rights of way committee. The appeal was made by Mark Wisniewski, of applicants Ogden Renewable Energy, soon after. But inspector Louise Crosby said the turbine, due to be sited close to the Northumberland National Park boundary, would have a ‘significant detrimental effect on the character of the landscape and a significant adverse effect on the area’s visual amenity’.

A costs application by Mr Wisniewski against the county council has been refused.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2014/07/03/objectors-delight-as-controversial-turbine-bid-refused/