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Fears over wind farm
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Turbines at a new wind farm could be just 500 metres away from properties in Chase Terrace, local councillors fear.
An exhibition of the proposals for the former Bleak House site was held at Burntwood Library on Friday.
Such is the interest from local folk it attracted 150 visitors.
But some say the presentation by consultants left them feeling the issue is very onesided.
Many councillors and residents are concerned the issue is not getting a proper airing because the application will go before Cannock Chase Council.
The applicant Harworth Power, the energy arm of UK Coal, has reduced the number of turbines from five to three on land north of the A2190 Cannock Road between Heath Hayes and Chase Terrace.
The turbines are approximately 100m from blade tip to base. Each one can produce 2-2.3 megawatts providing electricity for up to 3,387 households.
County councillor Eric Drinkwater said: “Residents feel it is going to be intrusive and will be seen from a long way away.
“Certainly if there are effects they will be felt across Chase Terrace. “If there is any noise it will be felt because of the prevailing wind. There is a droning noise.”
Cllr Drinkwater pointed out the company is offering ‘community benefits’ if the application goes ahead.
Although no figure has been given, UK Coal spokesman Stuart Oliver told The Post this could be ‘substantial’ – depending on the number of turbines allowed.
The development would also include road network to each of the three turbines and the infrastructure.
Cllr Drinkwater denied it is defeatist to think about community benefits. He said unless they are discussed now, the area could lose out if the application goes ahead.
“I have an open mind about wind farms,” he said. “But it’s crucial Lichfield District Council talks to residents and gets their views.”
Cllr Drinkwater is planning to hold a special surgery about the issue shortly.
Burntwood councillors Paul Atkins and John Emery are calling for the issue to be discussed fully at the next town council meeting.
“The exhibition seemed to have been run by consultants,” Cllr Atkins told The Post. “Residents are concerned. The turbines are only 500 metres from properties.
“Although this comes under Cannock Council, residents want to know the views of Burntwood councillors.”
The application is expected to go before Cannock Chase Council in the next three months.
10 October 2007
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