A series of measures aimed at allowing local communities a greater say over proposed onshore wind development in their area have been welcomed by James Arbuthnot, MP for North East Hampshire.
“Given the forthcoming decision on the proposed development at Woodmancott, I am very keen to see the Government offering local people a greater say in what happens”, James said today.
In June 2013, Ministers issued revised guidance setting out the balance expected by the new National Planning Policy Framework on onshore wind to ensure that protecting the local environment is properly considered alongside the broader issues of protecting the global environment.
New measures followed, which mean that communities will have greater say over proposed onshore wind development in their area, and can gain increased benefits from hosting developments that do proceed.
This month, Eric Pickles MP, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, further strengthened the guidance given to planners, making it clear that the need for renewable energy does not automatically override environmental protections and the views of local communities should be listened to.
James added, “I have seen the proposed site on the South Downs for myself, and I wrote immediately to Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council registering my objections. The beauty of this landscape would be ruined forever if the development was allowed.”