MP speaks out over plans for wind farms
AN MP has spoken out against plans to put up two wind farms in his constituency.
North West Norfolk MP Henry Bellingham told planning inspector Robert Mellor his concerns about plans to build 11 turbines at Stanhoe and Syderstone.
Mr Mellor will be deciding whether to overturn West Norfolk Council’s decision to refuse planning permission for E.On and Renewable Energies (RES) to install the turbines.
RES wants to build six 126.5m turbines on land off Jack’s Lane, Barwick, near Stanhoe; E.On is hoping to put up five 100m turbines on a site at Chiplow, near Syderstone.
Mr Bellingham highlighted, during his half-hour address at Lynnsport last Thursday, that Norfolk is already doing its bit for renewable energies thanks to the off-shore turbines dotted along the coast.
Speaking after his appearance, Mr Bellingham said that there was “no way” the 11 turbines could be “described as being of key national importance”.
He told the Lynn News: “These 11 turbines add very little to renewable generation.
“One of the points made by the power companies is that Norfolk has got to hit its targets.
“Norfolk has more than hit its target for off-shore generation.
“We are a coastal county and we are already doing our share.”
He also told the inspector that there was massive opposition.
Mr Bellingham said that he had received hundreds of letters and emails opposing the plans but received just one in support.
He also raised concerns for pink footed geese which could be “wiped out in huge numbers” if knocked off course.
Mr Bellingham also pointed out that the vast majority of landowners in the area were responsible and would not dream of putting up ugly grain stores.
He said: “It is inconceivable that two landowners want to put up massive industrial structures.”
The inspector is due to hear the closing statements tomorrow from the power companies, the borough council and protest groups Creake Action for Protecting the Environment and Against Turbines at Chiplow.
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Weather for King's Lynn
Sunday 27 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 9 C to 26 C
Wind Speed: 17 mph
Wind direction: East
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 10 C to 24 C
Wind Speed: 10 mph
Wind direction: North
