Duke of Northumberland delivers blast on the wind debate

Nov 30 2009 by Dave Black, The Journal

Region to host talks on wind farm strategy

WIND farm development in the North East is to be debated at a conference in the region.

Natural England is to host the event early next year which will provide a forum for leaders of industry, planning authorities and other interested organisations to discuss issues relating to turbines.

Natural England regional director for the North East Rob Aubrook said: "We need to make space for new renewable energy sources in the North East, but at the moment applications for new wind farms are generally being responded to on a case by case basis.

"By bringing the various interest groups together I’m sure we can move towards developing a much more strategic approach as to which local environments can support which type of renewable energy, and examine what the cumulative impact of onshore wind farms are on landscapes."

The conference has been welcomed by Phil Wilson, MP for Sedgefield, who said: "I am delighted that Natural England has agreed to host this meeting and it is a very welcome step in the right direction.

"It is vital that the various interest groups sit down together and look at a strategic approach to where wind farms should be located.

" We all need to play our part in keeping climate change at bay and I’m not against wind farms altogether, but I am concerned about the cumulative impact on the landscape. This event will give all those involved an opportunity to influence the region’s strategic approach to future wind farm developments."

Mr Aubrook said: "Natural England is already working with industry, local government, the environment sector and local communities to help take us further forward along the road to a low-carbon future.

"We welcome the opportunity to host and facilitate this meeting to improve understanding between the various interest groups."

Tony Henderson