Sir John to build wind turbines

11 December 2008 11:10am

Controversial plans from a former government minister to build two 80ft wind turbines on his country estate will be recommended for approval, his local authority said.

Former defence secretary Sir John Nott has submitted a planning application to build the turbines on his estate near St Erth, Cornwall.

The plans caused outrage from some residents, who said they will ruin the landscape and disrupt wildlife.

The parish council officially objected to the scheme, saying the turbines were too big and "potentially unneighbourly", and letters of objection cite noise, visual impact and potential to scare livestock.

Sir John, 76, is understood to want to halve the annual energy bill for his house, farm buildings and holiday homes.

The turbines will be mounted on 59ft towers and will measure 81 feet from the ground to the tip of the rotor blades.

A report to Penwith District Council states: "It is considered that the proposal is in accord with all relevant policies and will have no significant adverse impact on the surrounding landscape or neighbouring properties, and as such is recommended for approval."

Parish councillor Mick Hanley objected to the scheme and said village residents will be upset.

He said: "We have to reflect the views of the parish, which is why we turned it down. Everyone who lives close-by was up in arms about it and I would imagine now they would be very unhappy indeed.

"We are a forward-thinking parish council and we support moves towards sustainable energy but not at any cost. There has to be compromise."

© The Press Association