An appeal decision for the erection of two 500WW wind turbines in Staffordshire has been dismissed, with the Secretary of State refusing planning permission and citing the introduction of ‘alien industrial features’ as being unacceptable in terms of landscape impact.
The decision letter states that ‘He agrees with the Inspector that, due to their height and appearance, the turbines would stand out as alien industrial features which would have a detrimental impact on a pleasing rural landscape, and therefore concludes that the proposed turbines would have an adverse impact on the character and appearance of the area’ (paragraph 10).
An assessment of the potential heritage impact, relating to a nearby conservation area and church spire concludes: He agrees that, although no longer a farm, the surrounding fields are integral to the setting of Dunimere Farmhouse and the immediate surroundings are also important historically and their contribution to the setting of the farm must be considered. Like the Inspector and Historic England, he considers that, due to their size and modern appearance the turbines would have an adverse effect on this historic landscape which, in turn, would have a detrimental effect on the setting of the listed building. The Secretary of State agrees that the harm would be less than substantial, but that a finding of less than substantial harm carries considerable weight’ (paragraph 11).
Download the case letter (reference APP/K3415/A/13/2205526)
