Wind Turbine Project

You may recall that I first applied for a wind turbine at Upper Fir Covert, near Selbrigg Pond, Hempstead in late 2012 withdrawing it in early 2013. After a long planning process and appeals the planning inspectorate overruled North Norfolk District Council's original decision to refuse permission in 2020.

 

The original application was withdrawn following an objection from the Ministry of Defence regarding the potential visibility of the turbine to their Air Defence Radar. In addition, Norfolk County Council also asked for additional archaeological information.  The concerns from both these organisations were quickly satisfied.

 

I completely understand that some people don’t like the look of wind turbines, and those sited badly do the pro-wind supporters great harm. Unfortunately, a lot of myth and hearsay is recounted as gospel and this understandably worries people. I would suggest people consider the turbines at Swaffham – the one with the viewing platform by Waitrose is 100m to the top of the blade tip. Our turbine will be 78m to the tip.

 

The responses to the consultation exercise, (comprising of a letter, summary and response postcard) sent to residents of Baconsthorpe, Hempstead, Lower Bodham and High Kelling has focused my attention on various aspects of the application and I have amended it to include:

 

•  £2500 per year donated to Hempstead Parish Council in addition to previous commitment of £2000 per year split between Holt Youth Project, Toadwatch and the parish newsletter.

 

• All the above sums will be index linked to the consumer price index – guaranteeing real terms value throughout the lifetime of the turbine

 

• Improved visuals and mapping information

 

A build date has yet to be set, as we are now focused on satisfying the various planning conditions agreed upon at the appeal.

 

There is a short window of opportunity, should any large user of electricity wish to contact us to negociate a direct supply arrangement. This could be mutually beneficial.

 

Not withstanding obvious confidentiallity we have always tried to be as open and address any concerns at all stages, therefore if you have a question please do get in contact.

 

I do realise that Turbines are an emotive subject for some, and not for others.   Clean green energy, no pollution, no radiation legacy for our future generations, no global warming. Preserving precious fossil fuels to last longer.