Planning inspector rejects South Molton windfarm appeals

PLANNING permission for two proposed wind farm developments near South Molton has been turned down by the Planning Inspectorate, it has been announced today (Friday). The proposals for nine wind turbines at Paul s Moor, Knowstone, and four wind turbines a

PLANNING permission for two proposed wind farm developments near South Molton has been turned down by the Planning Inspectorate, it has been announced today (Friday).

The proposals for nine wind turbines at Paul's Moor, Knowstone, and four wind turbines at Bickham Moor, Oakford, have been the subject of a public inquiry, that opened in June last year.

Developers Airtricity and Coronation Power appealed against the non determination of their applications by North Devon Council and Mid Devon District Council.

Despite acknowledging the need for renewable energy schemes, planning inspector Philip Major dismissed the appeals and refused permission for the two windfarms due to their impact on the character of the area, in particular, the Exmoor National Park.

"The substantial harm to the landscape and to the setting of Exmoor resulting from the extensive nature of the development proposed is such that it outweighs all other considerations," said Mr Major.

But in what he called a "finely balanced decision" Mr Major said his ruling did not mean that other proposals in the area would be unacceptable. Other proposals are currently being determined for a two-turbine windfarm at nearby Cross Moor and a nine turbine development at Batsworthy Cross.

Read Wednesday's North Devon Gazette for the full story.