Support us from £3/month
We deal with almost 1000 cases a year assisting communities, groups and individuals in protecting their local spaces and paths in all parts of England and Wales. Can you help us by joining as a member?
We have objected to an application from RWE Npower Renewables Ltd for nine wind turbines at Neuadd-goch Bank near Dolfor, Newtown in Powys.
The society is particularly concerned that four of the wind turbines would be sited on registered common land, Cwmgwyn and Medwalleth Commons.
We are dismayed that the applicants refer to the ‘minor use of land taken up by the turbines and any new access tracks’ on the common. The effect of the turbines on the common and its surroundings is far from minor, it will be very substantial.
Says our general secretary, Kate Ashbrook: The proposed turbines and tracks will trash part of the common and people’s enjoyment of it—the public has the right to ride and walk over the whole area. The development will also affect those who have grazing rights on the land.
‘The applicants claim that they can provide suitable land in exchange, subject to the Welsh environment minister’s consent, but it’s hard to see how any exchange land can compensate for the devastating effect of the turbines on the landscape and people’s quiet recreation there.
‘Furthermore, the hillside is crossed by public footpaths and these too will be severely disrupted.
‘The Welsh economy relies heavily on tourism, yet this development is likely to discourage people from visiting this beautiful area of mid Wales,’ Kate concludes.