Inspector rejects plan to put up large turbine in Little Torrington

Credit: North Ddevon Journal | October 10, 2014 | www.northdevonjournal.co.uk ~~

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Plans for a Little Torrington wind turbine measuring almost 70 metres were rejected by the planning inspectorate.

The planning inspectorate refused plans for the 68 metre high machine last week.

Murex Energy Limited applied to the planning inspectorate after Torridge District Council refused the application.

In his report, planning inspector Alan Novitzky said the turbine’s harm to the area was of great concern.

He said: “The harm identified to the character and appearance of the countryside and to the settings of heritage assets is of significant concern. On balance I find that public benefits would not outweigh the harm. I have considered the suggested conditions but they do not offer sufficient mitigation. The overall effects of the proposal are unacceptable.”

Plans were submitted to Torridge District Council for the turbine to be built on land at Frizenham Farm, Little Torrington.

As well as concerns over the turbine’s impact on the landscape, Mr Novitzky stated there would also be an impact on visual amenities.

He said: “It would be experienced from positions which are widely accessible to the public to the east and north-east of the site across the Torridge Valley. These include the important open space and recreational location at Old Bowling Green, public viewpoints and the public footpaths which wind down through common land from the town into the valley.

“The development would be seen across landscape with the turbine assembly set on the horizon.”

Despite concerns the proposal could be seen from several points, it would be concealed by foliage and land form as the Tarka Trail passes through Pencleave Wood to the west of the site, close to the turbine.

Dr Phillip Bratby for the Campaign to Protect Rural England said the group were pleased about the refusal.

The Journal contacted Murex Energy Limited who did not respond for comment.

Source: North Ddevon Journal | October 10, 2014 | www.northdevonjournal.co.uk

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