Wind farm ‘will not harm historic homes’ (From Oxford Mail)

Wind farm ‘will not harm historic homes’

6:51pm Thursday 11th March 2010 in

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FOUR giant wind turbines planned for farmland in north Oxfordshire, would have no significant effect on historic buildings and monuments, an inquiry was told.

Today, Bolsterstone, the firm behind a proposed wind farm at Willowbank Farm, Fritwell, set out why it should be given planning permission for the development.

Last April the firm, which wants to generate electricity from four 125m-high turbines, was unanimously refused planning permission by councillors.

Dr Jonathan Edis, an expert in historic buildings, told a public inquiry at Cherwell District Council’s headquarters in Bodicote, Banbury, a wind farm was an acceptable view from 2,850 listed and historic buildings and monuments surrounding the site. He said: “In my view, the value described by English Heritage will be preserved around the proposed wind farm.”

Dr Edis, a former conservation officer, said turbines would be seen from places including Aynhoe Park and Rousham Park, near Lower Heyford, but would not be harmful to the listed sites.

Gwion Lewis, representing Cherwell District Council, said: “The impact on Aynhoe Park is a major issue for this inquiry.

“I’m expressing some concern you did not seek to revisit the site for the purposes of your assessment.”

Dr Edis said: “I do not agree.”

The inquiry continues.