PLANNERS have recommended the refusal of the controversial Lenchwick wind farm planning application.

The application from ScottishPower Renewables for five turbines on land east of Bishampton Bank is set to go before special meeting of Wychavon's Development Control Committee on Thursday, January 27 at the council chamber in Pershore Civic Centre.

Planning officers said the proposed wind turbines would lead to an "unacceptable adverse impact" on the character of the landscape and a visual intrusion and the development would expose nearby residential properties to excessive and unreasonable levels of noise.

They added the wind farm’s proximity to residential properties would create an overly imposing, dominating and oppressive visual effect and the Highways Agency has concerns about the use of the M5 and the A46 to deliver the wind turbine components.

Worcestershire County Council has also objected to the impact construction traffic would have on the maintenance of the existing highway.

The meeting starts at 2pm and the public speaking slot has been extended from 30 minutes in total to 30 minutes for objectors and 30 minutes for supporters.

The council will also be installing audio feeds in the nearby committee rooms and foyer in anticipation of a large public turnout.

Anyone wishing to speak at the meeting must submit their request to Wychavon by noon on Friday, January 21.

See Thursday’s Journal for the full story...