Ashley wind turbine approved

Controversial plans for an 88ft wind turbine to help power a farm near Market Drayton have won the go-ahead despite parish councillors' objections.

Bosses at Fields Farm, Wharmadine Lane, Ashley, can now build the turbine on their farmland to help cut rising energy bills.

Newcastle Under Lyme Borough Council's planning committee approved the scheme, subject to conditions, this week.

Loggerheads Parish Council had objected to the plans, claiming the turbine would be too tall, was in the wrong location and that there was no evidence of a feasibility study being carried out as part of the application.

Maer and Aston Parish Council said it was concerned by the potential visual impact of the scheme, but sensitive to the needs of the agricultural industry at a time when many farmers are facing economic hardship.

Under the plans the turbine would be light grey in colour and stand 88ft from the base to the blade tip.

The planning committe ruled the turbine can only be used to power the farm and any surplus must be fed into the National Grid.

A report to members of the planning committee said: "It is expected to provide a considerable amount of energy towards the overall usage at the site.

"The turbine will be grid connected to provide income at times when the farm does not require it."

It added: "It is felt that the proposed development would adhere with sustainable energy objectives specified in national policy guidance and Government energy agendas."

The scale and location meant it would have no adverse impact on countryside, conservation area or listed building.