A packed meeting has seen plans residents vow to battle plans for four new wind turbines near Lichfield.
German company Prowind is hoping to build the turbines in the heart of the Mease Valley between Lichfield and Tamworth.
More than a hundred people took part in the lively debate on November 17 at Clifton Campville Village Hall over the proposals for a new wind farm near to Haunton which are expected to be submitted to Lichfield District Council in February next year.
The meeting – which was jointly arranged by Clifton Campville and Harlaston Parish Councils on behalf of Matthew Ellis, the area’s County Councillor – heard criticism over the lack of public awareness earlier this year of a previous application for a wind speed test mast in advance of the turbines proposals.
Cllr Ellis said he was pleased with the turnout and wider public awareness of the plans:
“I wrote to homes in Harlaston, Clifton Campville and Haunton because I think it’s crucial that local people are made aware of these major plans.
“Whilst I broadly support renewable energy, at 400 ft in height these four wind turbines would dominate the countryside for miles and miles. They would be visible from both Lichfield and Tamworth and would dwarf the magnificent spire and flying buttresses of the historic St Andrews Church at Clifton Campville.
“And during construction, with the longest loads being 150 ft in length and the heaviest weighing an immense 165 tonnes, I fear the damage to the local roads and countryside would be irreparable.”
A vote was taken during the meeting which unanimously supported opposing the plans when they are formally brought forward.
Prowind have confirmed that they are to showcase their proposals at the church hall in Haunton on December 3 from 2pm to 7pm.
