Backing urged for wind turbine project on school playing fields

A total of 21 letters of objection have been submitted in relation to the proposals, which are for the new Advanced Learning Centre (ALC) to replace the existing Dearne High School in Goldthorpe.

Construction work on the new school, which is part of Barnsley's 300m Building Schools for the Future programme, has begun recently.

If the 20 metre-high turbines are granted planning permission, they will provide power for the new school.

Objectors, however, say that the visual impact and the noise they could produce outweigh the potential environmental benefits.

Other opponents say there is a potential impact on TV reception, while the low-frequency noise "could affect people's health".

All but one of the 21 letters of objection are from people living in Windermere Avenue, Derwent Gardens and Barnburgh Lane, to the north of Dearne High School.

But, despite their objections, the plans have been recommended for approval by Barnsley Council's planning officers.

The officials say: "The proposed turbines are a component part of the Building Schools for the Future programme and have potential to provide a green electricity source to Dearne ALC.

"The proposal offers the potential to positively contribute to the ALC by reducing its carbon emissions and enhancing its sustainable credentials."

Although planning policy says green space such as playing fields should be retained, the planning officers say the proposed turbines have "a relatively small footprint comprising the radius of the concrete bases".

A report to Barnsley Council's planning committee meeting tomorrow states: "The turbines are proposed in between playing fields in the middle of the overall playing field area.

"Whilst the turbines would be visible and potentially audible for users of the playing field, it is not considered this would represent a significant distraction which would inhibit the recreational value or functionality of the playing fields.

"Overall, it is considered the wider benefits of the scheme outweigh the very limited impact on recreational amenity."

The report adds that the visual impact of the turbines would be "tempered" by the backdrop of the new school.

"Furthermore, the ALC permission includes proposed areas for planting and, whilst planting would take some time to establish, it would serve to soften the visual impact when viewed from a number of vantage points.

"It is considered that the impact on the overall landscape is acceptable."

In terms of noise, the planning officers say this would "not be an issue" as both houses and the school would be a sufficient distance away from the turbines.

Recommending that the turbines should be granted planning permission, the report concludes: "The proposal offers the potential to contribute towards the Government's low carbon agenda and to enhance the sustainability of the Building Schools for the Future programme."

It concludes: "Whilst concerns have been raised regarding, particularly, the visual and noise impacts of the proposal, the siting of the turbines in relation to sensitive receptors within the wider landscape is considered acceptable."

Barnsley Council's planning committee meeting, at which the application will be decided, takes place at the town hall tomorrow.