MP pledges support for onshore wind turbines Bill

MP pledges support for onshore wind turbines Bill

04 November 2009, Westminster.

Tony Wright MP has pledged his support for a 10 minute rule Bill that will outline new guidelines on where onshore wind turbines can be sighted in relation to other developments.

The Onshore Wind Turbines (Proximity of Habitation) Bill was introduced to the House of Commons Yesterday by Peter Luff MP, with Tony being one of the Bill’s primary sponsors.

Tony said:

‘I am a huge supporter of renewable energy, but recognise there are real concerns over the sighting of onshore wind turbines. There is a lack of legislation on this issue and this Bill would help to clarify where onshore wind turbines can be positioned in relation to homes and businesses.

‘Here in Great Yarmouth we have proved our green credentials with the Scroby Sands development, and this will be followed by the world’s largest wind farm, soon to be constructed off the East coast. Introducing the limits contained within the Bill to onshore wind farms would result in clearer guidelines for planners.

‘Whilst I recognise that time may run out before the Bill could be enacted it sends a clear message to the Government that we need to have greater clarity for communities in determining the criteria for planning applications for onshore wind farms.’

The Bill proposes that smaller turbines up to 50m in height should be at least half a mile from habitation, medium sized ones up to 100m a mile away, and the largest turbines, those above 100m, at least 1.5 miles away. Turbines under 25m would not be subject to restrictions. This will reduce the risk of turbines being built unreasonably close to homes and businesses, unless of course the local residents do not object.