The Government has announced new measures to give local communities the final say over planning decisions for new onshore wind farms.
Karen welcomed the news that wind turbines will only get the go-ahead if the local community has made it clear they support onshore wind projects in their area. They will be free to decide where turbines should go and any proposals must address the concerns of local people and have their backing.
In addition, the law will be changed to end billpayer subsidies for new onshore wind farms from April 2016. This will ensure that we meet our renewable energy commitments in a way that protects taxpayers and keeps bills low for working people.
Karen said:
“Wind turbines have been one of the most contentious issues in the Moorlands over the last few years and have some applications have been really divisive. I have always said that turbines need to be in the right place and that includes taking into account local views so I am delighted the Government is making it so clear the local people must have their say."
Communities have been powerless to stop wind farm developments that they objected to but now under a Conservative Government that will change as another manifesto commitment is being delivered.
Local people in the Moorlands will now have the final say over planning applications for onshore wind turbines so only those with the support of local people can go ahead. And the plans will also stopping billpayer subsidies for new onshore wind farms so that they have to work on their merits (more details here).
Karen added: "This is part of our plan to give power back to communities so that local people they can determine the future of their areas – not be forced to accept decisions imposed on them."