September 7, 2015
Wales

Protesters victorious in fight for Montgomeryshire

By Ben Goddard | News North Wales | 07 September 2015 | www.newsnorthwales.co.uk

The County Times ran an extensive campaign against new wind farms at Llanbadarn Fynydd, Llaithddu, Llanbrynmair and Carnedd Wen which were all refused today after a lengthy public inquiry.

MP for Montgomeryshire Glyn Davies labelled today a victory for local protestors after also opposing the development.

Consent was granted for the repowering at Llandinam but the Llandinam to Welshpool substation overhead power line connection was also refused.

A Department for Energy and Climate Change Spokesperson said: “Careful consideration has been given to each application, and the planning and energy issues involved.”

Mr Davies said: “Today’s decision to refuse all but one wind farm planning application appealed by developers is really good news for Montgomeryshire.

“Our wondrous landscapes have been saved from wanton desecration. We have protected the legacy which we have enjoyed, for our children to love in the way we do. Today is a very good day indeed for Montgomeryshire.

“I am pleased that DECC Ministers have listened to the inspirational protest movement that rose up against the plans of the Welsh Government to desecrate mid Wales with pylons and several hundred additional turbines.

“It was a wholly unreasonable and insensitive proposal. If only the Welsh Government had listened to the people before coming up with their hideous plans, letting loose the unfettered pursuit of profit by developers, Scottish Power and National Grid.

“I very much hope that National Grid will quickly withdraw its proposal for its disfiguring 400kv line and massive substation. The money wasted is an utter scandal. The divisions and worries caused to the people I represent have been deeply traumatic. Lift the dark cloud that has been hanging over the people of Montgomeryshire for the last ten years.”