Wind farm proposals inappropriate says Totnes Lib Dem

Proposals to build 3 100 metre high wind turbines outside Goverton, near Kingsbridge have been described as inappropriate by Totnes Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Spokesperson, Mike Treleaven.

Speaking today he said:

'On the face of it wind farms seem an excellent way of reducing our dependence on fossil fuels and reducing global warming, but their use has to be balanced with the overall needs of the community. These proposals are, in my view, a non-starter. 100 metre high structures that dominate the skyline are just too big. I understand that the technology has developed and these larger turbines are more efficient, more cost effective and quieter, but in such a beautiful area as the South Hams they are inappropriate. We have to balance the small environmental saving in carbon emissions against the overall environmental effect in the locality.'

He continued:

'Of course a major problem is the way in which the labour government has steam rolled through planning procedures that make it extremely difficult for local councils to reject such plans. The proposal is just outside the designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, although I suspect that most people would agree with me that the whole of the South Hams is outstandingly beautiful and needs that protection. I just hope that the District Council will take advantage of the small amount of leeway they have in the regulations to ensure this development does not go ahead as planned.'