Shropshire wind turbine bid given go-ahead
A controversial plan for a 60ft wind turbine in the Shropshire countryside, the noise of which was likened to 'Chinese war torture', has been approved despite objections.
More than 20 people opposed the plans at Villa Farm, Cardington, near Church Stretton, which had been refused planning permission once before.
They said the 11kw Gaia wind turbine site, which is in the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, would ruin the views of the south Shropshire hills and create unacceptable noise pollution.
But after a fierce debate the development was approved by five votes to three at Shropshire Council's central planning committee meeting in Shirehall yesterday.
Shropshire councillor Tony Durnell said the dull buzzing noise residents would have to put up would be worse than 'Chinese war torture'.
He said: "There are much better alternatives which would be less obtrusive and I'd much rather the option of solar was explored. Wind turbines can only operate in a certain window meaning they are very inefficient and it's in the wrong place and the wrong type.
"The economy could also be hit because of visitors and the buzzing sound it emits should not be underestimated. It will be unbearable."
Councillor John Everall said wind turbines looked 'dreadful' in the rural landscape.
And resident David Pickard said any monetary gain would only benefit one individual. He added: "The local tourist industry could be harmed and only three people that live in the village have supported it."
He quoted Environment Secretary Owen Paterson who said: "It is idiotic to put turbines in areas of low wind." He added: "I would suggest to you that this application is seriously flawed."
But an agent, speaking on behalf of the applicants, said the turbine would 'increase the financial viability' of the farm after being put under 'serious financial pressures' by the rising cost of electricity.
She said the 17 letters in favour showed a 'significant level' of support for the business which is run by the Pinches family.
And Lib Dem councillor Miles Kenny said: "Like it or not we have got to get to grips with this and accept renewable energy and accept that we have to do wind turbines because the alternative is the lights will go off when we run out of energy."
