7:10pm Tuesday 9th February 2010
By David Paine
CAMPAIGNERS are celebrating after plans to create a wind farm on the outskirts of Worcestershire were dealt a blow.
Inspector Graham Cundale of the Planning Inspectorate dismissed the proposed Strensham wind cluster access track appeal after Wychavon District Council refused the application last April.
The access track was to service three large turbines proposed by Wind Prospect Developments on land south west of Upper Strensham, but we previously reported how Wychavon had refused the application on the basis it encroached on an area of natural beauty, would have an impact on historic parkland and would cause the loss of part of an historic wall.
The turbines and associated infrastructure are currently being considered by Tewkesbury Borough Council.
A spokesman for Strensham Windfarm Action Group (SWAG) said: “We are extremely encouraged by the planning inspector’s decision to dismiss this appeal. He has rightly recognised the impact this development will have on the character and appearance of the locality.”
Alastair Smith, development manager for the Strensham wind cluster, said: “We’re obviously unhappy that the inspector didn’t take account of the potential benefits of the proposed turbines in his decision.”
However, Mr Smith said the inspectorate’s decision did not mean the end for the project.
“Whilst disappointed that the appeal was refused, we welcome the inspector’s statement that any harm from the track could be outweighed by the wind turbines’ benefits,” he said.
“We are proceeding on this basis in the knowledge that the proposed turbines will help combat climate change and contribute to energy security.”
Mr Smith said the three proposed turbines were estimated to produce electricity equivalent to that used by about 3,000 homes a year. “In the event that the turbines are approved, we will again approach Wychavon District Council with an application for the access track”, said Mr Smith.
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