April 19, 2022
Australia

Unrest continues at Stanley over Western Plains windfarm, anti-windfarm signs

By Meg Whitfield | The Advocate | April 17 2022 | www.theadvocate.com.au

Community division over a proposed windfarm is continuing in Stanley, with a development application lodged for the right for 31 properties to host anti-windfarm signage.

The application, which made up more than 240 pages of the upcoming council meeting agenda – including community responses – would see the installation of signs in opposition to a proposed 12-turbine windfarm about five kilometres from Stanley.

Fifteen properties included are in the local heritage precinct, with the permit lodged by vocal opposition group Respect Stanley Peninsular – No Wind Turbines Inc.

The Western Plains project, from Epuron, has not yet lodged a development application with the Circular Head Council.

However, opposition has grown in response to concerns about the scenic impact the windfarm may have, with the turbines likely to be visible from the top of the Nut.

The development application received 15 representations from the Circular Head Community.

These ranged from concerns over giving a “vocal minority” the appearance of a bigger standing, and fears the signs would tarnish the look of the heritage streetscape for which Stanley is known.

These signs are in no way suitable for our town and region as they outwardly portray an image of backward, anti-developmental and closed-minded thinking to tourists and potential residents alike,” one resident wrote.

The Signs Code does not specifically regulate the details of the messages or information that is contained within signs.

“In the application, RSP- NWT secretary Kerry Houston said the signs would be small in size and would not be attached to the fabric of any heritage buildings.

“The signs were created by a graphic designer to be cohesive and pleasing in colour and layout to relay this strong and simple message in a creative and respectful way,” the application reads.

If permitted, the signs would be able to be displayed until November 11, 2022.

The Circular Head Council meeting is set for Thursday, April 21.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2022/04/19/unrest-continues-at-stanley-over-western-plains-windfarm-anti-windfarm-signs/