The anemometer test mast was erected on about 15th December 2000. At 40 metres high it is extremely obtrusive from a very wide area.
Occurrences in recent days have, however, proved more worrying. Representatives of West Coast Energy have visited at least four families in the vicinity. The following statements have been made:
A planning application will be submitted within 6 months for initially 3 wind turbines (more will undoubtedly follow as an area of approximately 40 acres is involved).
The centre of the turbines will be 40 metres from the ground with rotors of radius 27 metres, i.e. the structures will be at least 67 metres high. (They have been stated by West Coast Energy to be the highest in the country.)
West Coast Energy will be holding public meetings in the area and have told one family they will conduct noise tests.
(West Coast Energy were given my name and address and the suggestion made that they should contact me, but I have not been approached.)
One family near the development, who have approached a local Estate Agent, have been told that their property is now virtually "unsaleable" and that it's value will have "crashed". I believe that the effect on, at least, the immediate neighbourhood will be catastrophic.
It is interesting to note that proposals for similar wind turbines at Ilfracombe and Bratton Fleming were rejected by Devon County Council on the grounds that the detrimental effect to the environment would not be outweighed by the benefit from renewable energy. The verdict has, however, gone to the Department of the Environment as North Devon District Council failed to reach a decision in the required 16 week period.
The windfarm is being proposed by West Coast Energy Ltd., Nercwys Road, Mold, Flintshire. On land belonging to Mr. And Mrs. D. C. Pengelly, West Down Farm, Bradworthy.