Objections heard in turbine inquiry

Published on 17th May 2007 in News

The public inquiry into two proposed windfarms at Keadby and Tween Bridge resumed this week in Goole, starting on Tuesday with objections from Natural England and the RSPB.

The inquiry, which is taking place at the Vikings Hotel, involves the Thorne and District Windfarm Advisory Group (TDWAG), Doncaster Sheffield Airport, Natural England, Renewable Energy Systems Developments (RES), E.ON UK and Friends of Tween Bridge Windfarm among others.

The opening objections on Tuesday were on the grounds of ecology and ornithology and the first case for opposition was brought forward by Mr Tim Kohler, Conservation Officer for Natural England. Evidence was also presented from Dr Tim Melling, Senior Conservation Officer for the RSPB. Mr Kohler presented evidence regarding the potential impact of the windfarms with a joint submission from Natural England and RSPB.

Mr Kohler stated that although he had no final conclusions as to wether the windfarms should be permitted, there were concerns over the visual impact on visitors. "We are concerned about visitors perception of the site. Whilst I am not arguing that the site is completely natural, as there has been lots of intervention from man in the past, the section of the site proposed for the turbines in contrast to the surrounding land is of naturalistic interest. When people are on the site it does feel very natural, long grass hides artificial elements."

Mr Kohler added: "There is concern over the dominating visual impact on visitors to the area as the turbines will add a distinctive artificial aspect on a site that is noted for having a lack of them."

Mr Kohler also expressed concern over birds breeding in the proposed sites such as the nightjar and the effect it might have on them, as Thorne, Goole and Hatfield moors have been declared as special areas of conservation.

In his cross-examination, Mr Fraser from E.ON UK, pointed out that: "Nothing Mr Kohler identified would have a significant effect on the natural nature reserve or the visual quality of the natural nature reserve." He added: "Visibility is obscured by hedges two metres high and you would only be able to see five metres of the tip of the blade, something which will not register on the conscious of the visitors." Mr Kohler said: "This is a balancing act in terms of risk as there is no absolute answer."

Mr Kohler said that they would have no objection to the phased approach as proposed by E.ON UK, which would involve putting in place nine turbines which would eventually increase to 22. He said that this would allow monitoring of the site to see if it had an adverse effect before more turbines were put on the site.

However, Friends of Tween Bridge Windfarm said they were struggling to understand why there was no objection to the phase scheme but there were objections to 22 turbines as Mr Kohler said he could not say how many turbines would have an effect.

The inquiry continues for the rest of the week with closing submissions taking place on June 13, 14 and 15.