Anti-wind farm protesters’ plea

Apr 3 2010 by Brian Daniel, The Journal

DEFLATED anti-wind protesters in Northumberland have pleaded with circling developers to back off.

Kirkwhelpington Parish Council, campaign group Campaign for Responsible Energy Development in Tynedale (Credit), and a private objector have begged renewable energy companies interested in their area to take heed of recent approvals for two projects and realise that it has reached saturation point.

As reported by The Journal last week, the Government has given the go-ahead to schemes for 18 turbines at Green Rigg Fell, Birtley, and 16 on the Ray Estate, following a public inquiry.

Those 34 engines would add to one operational turbine at Kirkheaton, which could be joined by two more if the developer is given permission to restore two faulty machines.

That potential figure of 37 is despite the Regional Spatial Strategy stating the Knowesgate area is suitable for 22 turbines.

In addition to those approved, npower renewables has plans lodged with Northumberland County Council for a further eight 125m turbines at Kirkharle.

In recent years, possible schemes for Thockrington, Capheaton, Harwood and Tone have also been mooted, along with a number of small sites towards Rothbury and Morpeth.

Last week Credit claimed Northumberland has approaching 100 operational or consented wind turbines, more than any other county.