Shropshire windfarms get go-ahead despite opposition

Plans for two windfarms have been given the go ahead in north Shropshire despite objections from local residents.

An 18.5 metre high turbine will be put up at Sleap House Farm, Harmer Hill and a 36.4 metre one will be put in at Dandyford Farm, Hordley, near Ellesmere, after Shropshire Planners gave the go-ahead. In each case, a single turbine will be built to help power the farm.

The 50kw turbine at Hordley will have 9.6 metre blades and sit on a small plateau to the north of the farm.

In the application to Shropshire Council the agent, VG Energy, said EB Wigley is a trading farm business running both cattle and arable enterprises.

It said: "Mr Wigley is a young farmer, in his thirties who wishes to diversify the income produced on the farm to support his young family."

When approving the plans Shropshire Council said the development was acceptable, sustainable and will not have a significant detrimental impact on the quality or character of the surrounding landscape.

It said: "It is considered that whilst the turbine will be visible, it is sufficient distance away from neighbouring properties to mitigate from any overbearing visual impact or intrusions through any significant noise or other detrimental impact The wind turbine will not have any adverse impact on local ecology and the proposed landscaping mitigation will enhance the locality and provide improved wildlife habitat."

Meanwhile, Graham Downes applied for a 50kw turbine to power Sleap House Farm. The Parish Council supported the plans and the Ministry of Defence raised no objections.

A design and access statement to Shropshire Council said: "The proposed project has been designed with the intention of generating zero-carbon electricity through wind as a renewable energy source."

Over 20 people had made comments on both applications before they were approved at a meeting using delegated powers last week.