Controversial plans to build a 35-metre high wind turbine in Affetside have been met with opposition from local campaigners.
The plans have been drawn up by James Jennings, of Top Height Farm on Watling Street, who withdrew a similar plan in January, with the location of the new proposal slightly altered from the previous one. A report drawn up by Viridis wind turbines on behalf of Mr Jennings claims that the impact of the 34.5 metre high turbine on residential dwellings would be ‘minimal’, with the turbine around 150 metres from the nearest properties.
It also said there would be no long-term significant noise impact on residential properties, and that the ‘slim profile’ of the turbine would limit its visual impact.
In addition, the report also claims the that the wind turbine would be able to generate power for more than 60 homes and could save almost 3,000 tonnes of carbon emissions.
However campaigners say that the turbine would be too close to residents, harm local businesses and damage tourism as well as undermining the living conditions of some residences.
Mike Singleton, from the West Pennines Protection Trust, which is fighting the proposals, says the wind turbine is inappropriate.
He said: “This would be an incongruous feature to which the eye will be drawn by virtue of its location, prominence and the fact that it will be moving. It is in every sense of the word inappropriate development in the green belt.
“Nearby residents would be left with intolerable living conditions as a result of this turbine where its closeness would emphasise its overwhelming height.”
The trust were also critical of the report, saying they sought expert advice on the sound reports and the photo montage provided and were told they would not stand up to legal or technical scrutiny.
A resident of Watling Road, who wished to remain anonymous, said: “If this one gets through more will get put up and it will ruin the environment and impact the lives of residents.”
Bury Council received a total of 233 representations on the issue, 11 of which were in favour, 205 against and 17 petitions were received.
A public consultation ended on July 4 and a final decision could be made by councillors at Bury planning committee’s August 20 meeting at the town hall.
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