Six wind turbine proposals for tiny Northumberland village

Oct 28 2009 by Sam Wood, The Journal

Rothbury councillor Steven Bridgett is backing the residents in their fight.

He said: “I still remain unconvinced that wind turbines are actually as efficient as what is being made out. If you take away the tax payer subsidy from these farms, quite simply none would be built. They are just not efficient enough to operate without government support.”

Stephen Hannay, Project Director for Novera Energy plc, the company behind two of the potential farms said it was no coincidence so many companies wanted to put turbines up near Wingates.

“Following an extensive search, Novera identified Wingates as one of the best sites in Northumberland for wind farm development,” he said.

“I can appreciate the concern felt by local villagers; however, it is unlikely that every site will be consented.

“It will be up to local councillors to vote for the right site for the area.”

A spokesperson for Northumberland County Council said: “The council must assess all wind farm proposals in the context of national and regional policies on renewable energy and climate change, taking into account environmental impacts and the views of the local community.”