Wind farm inquiry nears end

The Inquiry in Woore into the proposal by Nuon UK Ltd to build a wind farm of seven 110m-high turbines is entering its final phase. The hearing has been sitting for three weeks but there is said to be only a day and half to go before the Government-appointed inspector retires to consider the evidence.

A local expert in the law has commented that the evidence of one witness stands out. Audlem Online also covered that day of the Inquiry and was equally impressed with the compelling contribution of Michelle Bolger, a landscape expert – see our report of last Friday 22nd May.

Two Members of Parliament, Owen Paterson and Bill Cash, have given evidence, each paying a tribute to the way Vortex, the main pressure group opposing the development, had amassed and presented its evidence.

The Inspector will have a difficult decision to make. He is, of course, appointed by a Government Department, and that same Government's policy is to promote inland wind farms. He will have to weigh up the evidence he has heard and decide which he prefers. He also has to strike a balance between the global, national and local need for renewable energy and the adverse effect the proposed wind farm will have locally.

On Monday 1st June, from 2.00 – 5.00pm, there will be a opportunity for residents to say how the proposal will affect the area. Finalising of conditions should the proposal be approved will also take place, a standard part of all Inquiries which does not mean that the proposal will be approved. The afternoon is likely to include the summing up address from Newcastle under Lyme Borough Council's barrister.

On Tuesday 2nd June, from 10.00am – 5.00pm, it will be the summing up addresses from Counsel for Nuon, North Shropshire District Council/Shropshire County Council, the Parish Councils and Vortex.

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