Delay in plans for wind turbines near Salcey Forest
Credit: Northampton Chronicle & Echo, www.northamptonchron.co.uk 6 October 2011 ~~
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An application to build a wind farm next to a beauty spot has been halted by the council, as it seeks more information on the environmental impact on the area.
Ecotricity’s application for 15 wind turbines at Stoke Lodge Farm, less than two miles from Salcey Forest, was due to be considered by Milton Keynes Council on Monday.
But planning officers have delayed the process after requesting more evidence from the energy company about how the proposal would affect wildlife, archaeology and heritage.
A spokesman for Milton Keynes Council said: “Whilst the committee members could have made their decision then, we have asked Ecotricity to come back to us with further information relating to their environmental assessment.
“We have asked for extra information relating to potential impact on the local ecology, archaeology, potential noise impact, public rights of way, ‘shadow of flicker’ from the turbines, and potential impact on the settings of heritage assets.”
If approved, the turbines would generate enough energy to serve 30 per cent of the housing in Milton Keynes.
A spokesman for Ecotricity said discussions were ongoing with the Buckinghamshire local authority.
He added: “When an application is submitted, it is not unusual for the council or Statutory Consultees to request additional information or clarification.
“Such requests are an entirely standard and well-established part of the development process and may require the applicant to carry our further studies.
“We understand that the council’s own review confirms that our environmental statement already fully satisfies the requirements of the environmental regulations.”
Residents close to the proposed site have formed campaign group Save Our Salcey to fight the application, claiming the noise and visual impact of the site would ruin the surrounding environment.
Derek Beevor, from the Save Our Salcey campaign, which is fighting the proposal, said he would now like the energy company to withdraw its application.
He added: “We call upon Ecotricity to put the environment, protected species, local residents and Salcey Forest’s many visitors before profit by withdrawing this planning application.”
A new date for consideration has not yet been set.
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