Concerns over wind turbines plan
PEOPLE have voiced their opposition to two “eyesore” wind turbines that could soon be built in the Rhondda and would be higher than Big Ben.
The plans would see two wind turbines with a maximum height of 125m installed at Llwyncelyn Farm in Porth, with the plans set to be discussed by Rhondda Cynon Taf council’s planners this week.
It comes after a proposal for a single turbine at the nearby Graig Fatha Farm in Coedely, near Tonyrefail, was pushed through by the council last month.
But since being made public, the plans, submitted by Bridgend-based Cenin Renewables Ltd, have seen significant opposition, with 34 letters raising issues about its visual impact, noise pollution and that it will bring “no financial or environmental benefit”.
But in its reasons for recommendation, the report concludes: “Whilst a number of objections have been received from residents who are opposed to the scheme for a variety of different reasons, the application has been assessed in relation to its effect on all relevant matters including landscape, visual amenity and noise and it has been concluded that the proposed development with not causing significant harm to existing amenities.”
The planning statement identifies that the wind turbines would enable the supply of electricity to an average of 2,280 homes, or 38% of the homes in Porth, which it is suggested, is “significant in both a local and national context”.
The development is expected to take four months, and, once erected, will have a 25-year operational life.
In response to the initial consultation, 24 letters of objection were submitted, citing more than 20 issues with the development. After a second consultation, 10 further letters of objection were received, raising concerns that “the visual impact of turbines would tower over Ynyshir”.
But concluding the report and recommending councillors push the plans through subject to a number of conditions, the report says the development can be “reasonably accommodated” within the landscape without harm.