7th January 2010

Residents up in arms over wind turbine plans

By Paul Crompton

CAMPAIGNERS are renewing their battle against a farmer’s plan to build two 80-feet wind turbines in the middle of a picturesque Blackdown Hill’s village.

Luppitt residents were up in arms when they discovered a part of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty would be blighted by two 11 kw wind turbines placed on 18 metre towers.

Applicant Gavin Brake, of Overday Farm, Luppitt, had previously withdrawn his plans at the end of last year after a vigorous debate by anxious residents at Luppitt Parish Council.

The planning withdrawal was welcomed at the time, but campaigners are renewing their fight after hearing the application is to be re-submitted on January 8th.

Objectors have highlighted the turbines as inappropriate, fearing a negative environmental impact and that it will open the “floodgates” for similar applications.

Karen Hoyles said: “I object strongly to this application on the grounds that it may open the floodgates and set a precedent for similar applications in the future which are totally inappropriate in an AONB.”

Janet Blake said: “I chose to live in this area because of the peaceful nature of Luppitt and it seems that is about to be destroyed by ugly 80 feet monster wind turbines.

“I feel that the short time allowed and the lack of publication of this application is underhand and deceitful I wonder how people will feel about their property being devalued by probably over half.”

The proposed wind turbines will be the equivalent height of five double-decker busses stacked on top of each other.

Lifelong resident Sally Twiss said the noise from the turbines would be as damaging as that caused to the environment and landscape.

Mrs Twiss said: “I think there are other people interested in waiting to see the outcome of this to put forward their own applications.”

East Devon District Councillor Dave Key, who is set to chair a public meeting to discuss the environmental impact of renewable energy, said: “No decision has been made whatsoever at the moment.

“We must wait for the public meeting to invite everyone in Luppitt parish to give their views on this.”

Residents are now urged to attend a meeting at Luppitt Village Hall at 8pm on Friday, January 8th to find out more about the planning application.