Campaigners set to raise storm over scheme for wind turbines

Plans have been submitted for two turbines on a field west of Lower Hazel Hurst Farm, at Cold Edge Road, Wainstalls, near Halifax.

The turbines would stand more than 200ft to the tip of the blade and would be a short walk from a small collection of homes.

Householders have just discovered the plans and are preparing a case to present to Calderdale Council in a bid to have them rejected.

Colin Feeley, who lives in Wainstalls, is one of about 30 nearby residents opposing the application.

He said: “We have got several concerns; it is a place of natural beauty at the head of the Luddenden valleys. From the top of the valley you can see for 30 miles. These two turbines will be right in the middle of that view.”

He and fellow objectors are also concerned about the proximity of the turbines to their properties – Mr Feeley said his home is just over 300 yards from the site. The potential impact on the environment, in particular bird species, is also a concern, he said.

“We have a number of bird watchers who visit this area. We are trying to get hold of them as they have the expertise and knowledge of the bird species.

“We know there are lapwings, curlews, snipe. Any bird will be at risk. We also have geese and ducks.”

Residents met last night to decide what to do next and what points of objection to raise with Calderdale Council planners. Anyone wanting to make a comment on the plans has until Friday July 8 to do so.

Documents sent to the council by the applicant argue in favour of the importance of renewable energy targets.

“The two WES30 wind turbines at Lower Hazel Hurst Farm, Wainstalls will contribute towards statutory targets for renewable energy by 2020.

“The client has lived at Lower Hazel Hurst Farm for three years. The site is not a work farm and therefore a significant amount of energy will be transported to the Grid thus providing a wider community benefit.”

The reports, submitted by Segen, part of the company Myriad CEG, describe the character of the area as rural in nature which is “pepper potted with small villages and farms”.

It adds: “There are a few residential properties in the immediate area. The area is generally open and exposed with little areas of woodland. The nearest is Ogden plantation to the north-east.”

The applicant states that consideration had previously been given to a larger turbine than the existing plans.

“A larger turbine with a taller mast and larger blade sweep was considered at this site. However it was decided that two WES30 turbines on the proposed 49-metre (160ft) masts (hub heights) could be absorbed into the existing landscape to a greater extent than a larger turbine model.

“The applicant feels that in order to use this technology to the best of its ability the most efficient turbine available should be installed, whilst remaining conscious of landscape impact.”

The energy generation from the WES30 on a 160ft mast “makes the turbine economically viable and environmentally sound in this location”.

The report says that any impact on the character and visual appearance of the landscape “is outweighed by the benefits of this proposal”. It says the turbines will have a life span of 25 years and be coloured pale grey to match the English sky.

The report adds: “The colour of the turbine is proven to blend in most effectively in both urban and rural locations and that is why other vertical structures are often this colour, such as communication masts, lamp posts and electric pylons, which are an accepted feature throughout the countryside.”