4. Development Control 07/B/0765 – Full Planning Application – Wind farm development comprising no more than 10 no. turbines with associated infrastructure; Wandylaw Farm, Chathill, Northumberland NE67 5HG (i) Verbal representations were made by: Objector Dominic Coupe, on behalf of Save Northumberland’s Environment Ltd Parish Council/Ward Councillor Councillor Geoff O’Connell, Belford Ward Supporter David Griggs, Ellingham Applicant Nigel Goodhew, developer John Fairlie, agent (ii) Notes of debate: Members considered a detailed presentation by officers, and verbal representations made by the objectors, supporters and applicant. Members were also made aware of late submissions received from a number of organisations and individuals, including one from the Ministry of Defence raising objections to the development on the grounds of interference with radar systems. Members considered the visual impact of the development; the cumulative impact that would arise if a wind farm on land at neighbouring Middlemoor Farm were to be approved; the late MoD objection; the potential effect of a wind farm on this site on the tourism industry of North Northumberland; any benefits the development may have for local people; access to the site from the A1; and the contribution the development would make to regional renewable energy targets. A proposal to refuse the application was made by Councillor Watkin and was seconded by Councillor DW Donaldson. A named vote in respect of this motion was proposed and seconded. The vote was recorded as follows: In favour of the motion JKG Allen DW Donaldson P Herdman JG Hutchinson RJ Patterson RT Pearson RJD Watkin D Wilson Against the motion AB Douglas DS Stewart DECISION: To refuse the full planning application on the following grounds: 1. Detrimental affect on the visual amenity of North Northumberland 2. Safety of residents of the area in relation to low-flying MoD aircraft 3. Inappropriate location 4. Cumulative considerations in relation to the application for a wind farm at Middlemoor 5. Proposed extension to the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty would bring it much closer to the development site 6. The site is in an area which is an insertion between the Northumberland National Park and the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and would therefore affect both of these significant landscapes 7. The site provides a backdrop to the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which attracts tourists to North Northumberland 8. Concerns regarding the access to the site from the A1 [Note: at 8.50pm the Chairman asked Members to approve a motion to continue the meeting past 9.00pm. This was agreed unanimously. The meeting closed at 9.20pm.] |
