A 77-METRE high wind turbine near Bridgwater would “desecrate the landscape”, say opponents, while those behind it say it would secure jobs.

Castle Hill Quarry Company Ltd commissioned Wind Direct to draw up plans - now submitted to Sedgemoor District Council - for a single turbine on land north of the quarry at Chads Hill, near Combwich and Cannington.

Ray Coggins, the chairman of ACT - Against Castle Hill Turbine - said: “It will be an overbearing, discordant, artificial structure, too near to peoples' homes.

“Many love walking on the public footpaths through Putnell Moor with its profusion of wildlife and flowers and now, if plans are approved, this industrial structure will desecrate the landscape and the beautiful views to the Quantocks beyond.”

Mr Coggins said the economic and environmental benefits to the scheme were questionable.
Bridgwater MP Ian Liddell-Grainger agrees.

He added: “There is little point in constructing and siting wind turbines in areas where they destroy naturally beautiful landscape and negatively impact on local wildlife and people alike.

“I cannot stress how important it is that residents make their objections known to the council.”

However, John Dupre, development manager for the project, said the turbine would provide the quarry with a direct source of renewable energy - enough to power the equivalent of 224 homes - and would “also help to secure the future of the quarry, thereby helping to retain local jobs and boost the local economy.”

Mr Dupre said: “The views of local people are an important consideration when designing schemes of this nature.

“Indeed, in this case the height of the turbine was reduced from 102m to 77m following feedback from local residents.

“Despite this I am aware that some local residents remain opposed to the proposal and while I am obviously disappointed that we have been unable to persuade them of the benefits of the scheme, I respect their position and accept that they have a right to object to the application should they wish to do so. “

The closing date for comments is July 12.

To view and comment on the application, visit the planning section of Sedgemoor District Council's website. 

The application number is 13/13/00016.