Wind turbine seen from Audlem claim

Objectors to plans to erect a wind turbine near Nantwich claim it will be seen as far away as Audlem.

Owners of land at Ridley Bank Farm near Faddiley, want consent to construct a giant 49 metre high wind turbine on land opposite the farm off Wrexham Road.

The plan has prompted a storm of protest with even the Eddisbury MP Stephen O'Brien drawn into the battle.

Objectors claim the turbine will be seen for miles and be a major blot on the landscape. Studies suggest the turbine could be seen from as far away as Audlem.

Mr O'Brien has been forthright about his objection to all wind turbines saying: "There is no argument for wind turbines and they are totally flawed. I'm against all wind turbines – they are useless ecologically, they don't make any contribution. It is simply not sustainable."

The applicant says the wind turbine is "a diversification opportunity that will provide income for the farm independent of the fluctuations in farm prices, and significantly reduce its carbon footprint".

He claims extra income from the turbine would secure the continued use of local farm workers and help fund the farm's upkeep.

Bulkeley and Ridley Parish Council is objecting to the scheme which is to go before Cheshire East Council for approval.

Chairman Idina Hastings said: "This is an area of Special Scenic Value... It is Cheshire East policy that industrial turbines should not be placed in areas of Special Scenic Value."

This article is from our news archive. As a result pictures or videos originally associated with it may have been removed and some of the content may no longer be accurate or relevant.