MP calls for greater buffer zone for windfarms (From Evesham Journal)

MP calls for greater buffer zone for windfarms

9:57am Wednesday 21st October 2009

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EVESHAM’s MP, Peter Luff, will introduce legislation to the House of Commons next month calling for a buffer zone between wind farms and housing.

Mr Luff will introduce the Onshore Wind Turbines (Proximity of Habitation) Bill on November 3 under the 10 minute rule in a bid to set a fixed distance of half a mile for smaller turbines, a mile for medium sized turbines and 1.5 miles for the largest turbines from residential areas.

The MP for Mid Worcestershire said he has been working with residents living near to the proposed five-turbine windfarm at Lenchwick to look at increasing the current 500m buffer zone.

"It is my limited intention to raise the aesthetic and environmental concerns associated with large wind turbines when they are located too close to homes," he said.

"I happen to be a keen exponent of alternative and renewable energy sources, but feel strongly that onshore wind farms are only appropriate where their visual and environmental impact on open countryside is acceptable.

"Government policy on this issue is vague, giving little protection to local communities who have legitimate objections to the building of these turbines in their area. The companies appear to comply with a voluntary 500m “buffer zone” but this has no legal force."

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