Firm behind Wenlock Edge turbine plan in Government appeal

Edge Renewables will hear directly from planning inspectors whether its controversial plans for land on Wenlock Edge have been approved.

Shropshire Council's south planning committee had previously refused the plans and asked for more information about the 16-metre high turbine in Much Wenlock, which would be used for training purposes.

The Much Wenlock-based firm's application for Lea Quarry, on Wenlock Edge, said the turbine would be assembled and disassembled during training. But the turbine would primarily remain upright, only coming down for about two days per month when training exercises were carried out.

Councillors had asked for the turbines to remain in "a default position" on the floor when not in use, rather than staying upright within the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Councillors discussed the plans during a meeting of the planning committee yesterday but were told the final decision would now rest with the Planning Inspectorate.

They spoke of their shock at the company's decision to go straight to the Government but approved the plans, providing the turbine would remain on the ground when not being used for training.

The comments will now be sent to the planning inspector.

Madge Shineton, Shropshire councillor for Cleobury Mortimer, said: "I think this business is providing alternative forms of energy, which is important for the whole county and not just Shropshire.

"If we are going to use new technology there has to be training and I am more than satisfied with the conditions that have been out in place for this."

Robert Tindall, Shropshire councillor for Brown Clee, said he would support the plans if the turbines remained on the ground for the majority of the time.