August 12, 2014
England

Proposals to erect two wind turbines in Stretham are withdrawn

Daniel Mansfield | Ely Standard | August 12, 2014 | www.elystandard.co.uk

Plans to erect two 75m high wind turbines in Stretham have been withdrawn amid a growing chorus of criticism from residents.

Farmer Chris Attle applied to East Cambridgeshire District Council in July for permission to erect the two turbines on Red Hill Farm, in Cambridge Road, an arable and beef farm.

But the plans quickly attracted the ire of neighbours, who claimed the turbines would blight the countryside and potentially endanger wildlife.

The blades of the two turbines were set to stretch to some 54m in diameter and, at maximum capacity, the turbines were to be capable of generating enough power for hundreds of homes.

Malcolm Baines said: “The turbines will have a visual effect on the local landscape. “The A10 is a busy road at any time and the extra traffic caused by the contractors will make thing worse creating hazard and chaos.

“There is also the impact on wildlife. Bats, a protected species, are drawn to turbines, also the turbines are in the flight path of migrating birds.”

Roger Morris said: “Apart from the visual and aural impact of such structures, I question the efficacy of this technology.

“Developers receive huge subsidies, the turbines are manufactured off shore, the site owner is more than happy to receive a hefty income for use of his land and, of course, the taxpayers pay for such largesse through increased utility bills.”

And Alison Pearson added: “Wind turbines have a ‘flicker’ effect – that is a repeating shadow which is cast over the landscape as the sun catches the blades.

“These two turbines will be situated right next to the A10. Already a dangerous enough road, this ‘flicker’ effect could well be a distraction to motorists, whilst in some susceptible people it can trigger migraines and even epileptic fits.”

In light of the backlash against the plans, the applicant withdrew them on Monday.


URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2014/08/12/proposals-to-erect-two-wind-turbines-in-stretham-are-withdrawn/