Friday 30 September 2011

People power blocks npower wind farm

A six-turbine wind farm due to be built in Lincolnshire by npower has been refused planning permission after the Planning Inspector decided the location wasn't acceptable.

RWE npower had applied to develop the 15MW array near Anderby, which they say could have powered around 8,000 homes each year. However, more than 680 residents objected to the planned development within a coastal country park.

East Lindsey District Councillor Craig Leyland said: "We fought this appeal with local people because we knew it was wrong for the area. I am pleased the Inspector has agreed with the concerns raised by us and those that live locally about the impact the turbines would have on the area, including landscape impact and tourism. This is a good result."

The public outcry follows a recent surge of planning permission blocking for wind projects as more local councils defy Government plans to increase small-scale renewable generation projects.

Matt Pinfield, RWE npower renewables' Regional Manager for Eastern England said the project was a missed opportunity: "We are disappointed that the Planning Inspector did not agree with us that this was a well designed wind farm in a good location.

"Langham wind farm could generate enough clean energy for thousands of homes each year in a way that avoids emissions of the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide and contribute towards the security of the UK energy supply."