Good Energy are calling on supporters to have your say on an important planning policy issue on our home turf and very close to us here in Dorset, which could affect the UK’s ability to achieve its renewable energy targets.
The week before last, Wiltshire Council launched a public consultation on a controversial last-minute amendment to its Core Strategy which, if adopted, would effectively cut off a major route for developing renewable energy in Wiltshire. The amendment would stop wind farms being built by stipulating minimum separation distances between homes and wind turbines, ostensibly on health and safety grounds.
Friends of the Earth’s Executive Director Andy Atkins said, “It’s right that Wiltshire residents are consulted about this amendment to planning policy – wind turbines are not dangerous and there’s no safety reason to stop them being built within three kilometres of any home. Instead of sneaking in last-minute caveats that will stop clean energy in its tracks, Wiltshire Council should be blazing a trail with its local plan – cutting emissions and creating hundreds of jobs.”
It’s not just a local issue – Swindon is now discussing making a similar amendment to its Core Strategy, and Lincolnshire has already introduced restrictions. There is clearly a danger of a national precedent being set. We want to make sure that doesn’t happen.
You don’t need to be a resident of Wiltshire to comment on the consultation – so please take a few moments to have your say.
As Dorset Energized blog authors have pointed out before – supporters of onshore wind tend to be the silent majority, but now is the time to make your voice heard.
The consultation ends on November 1st, so please take action quickly.
For more details and to take action visit: http://www.goodenergy.co.uk/blog/2012/09/27/have-your-say-planning-policy-for-renewables-in-wiltshire