Following a lengthy determination process the Planning Inspectorate has allowed the appeal for a single wind turbine at Greenhills Farm near Lingdale in Redcar and Cleveland. Site appraisal, planning and environmental support throughout the development, submission and appeal process was provided by TNEI’s Newcastle based Planning and Environmental team.
TNEI delivered feasibility assessment followed by a robust scheme design process that was informed by proportionate levels of environmental assessment and consultation with key stakeholders. Scheme design took into account the findings of survey and assessment works with TNEI utilising in-house ecology, ornithology, noise and shadow flicker capabilities. A development evolved that minimised all environmental impacts, including impacts on the nearby North York Moors National Park and residential properties close to the site, while still generating substantial volumes of electricity.
An iterative design process resulted in the proposal to install a single wind turbine with a blade tip height of up to 89m. Support was then provided throughout local level application and decision making and the subsequent planning appeal processes.
The project highlights that proposals for single medium scale wind turbine developments require the same thorough and pragmatic approach as that taken for large wind farm projects. The right level of environmental assessment works are required so that constraints are fully understood and impacts can be mitigated as far as possible while maintaining a commercially viable scheme. It also demonstrates the benefits of a detailed consultation and scoping process for all wind energy developments.
Project developer, Stephen Carroll of GHF Energy Limited, considers that TNEI has provided “‘excellent technical advice married with practical working solutions’.
