Shock over plans for turbines near lough

Shock over plans for turbines near lough

10 August 2016

RESIDENTS concerns over a surge in applications for coastal wind turbines in east Down must be listened to, according to a local MLA.

South Down Assemblyman Colin McGrath said he has been shocked at the raft of applications for turbines which have been sought in the Saul, Strangford and Ballyhornan areas.

He said it is his understanding there are currently nine applications with the Planning Service for turbines over looking Strangford Lough and the Narrows including some with 40 foot rotor blades on top of 150 foot towers.

“Such turbines have a place but so many located in such a cluster close to and within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is worrying,” said Mr McGrath.

“One has to question what price developers put on our natural beauty. With the coastline of Strangford Lough being such a beautiful and protected area surely such turbines will be unsightly and detract from this natural land.”

Mr McGrath said several turbines have already been constructed and “can be seen for miles around” and he said he worries that nine applications in such a small area is over densification and will become a blight on our landscape. 

“Our natural beauty is an asset with shows such as the Game of Thrones and other programmes and films being recorded in our area because of its beauty and unspoilt horizon,” he continued. 

“This industry brings tens of thousands of tourists and all important pounds into our area and I fear this will be lost for a quick buck for a canny businessman.”

Mr McGrath has arranged a meeting with planned and local residents and says he is determined the “full rigour of the planning system” is applied to these applications and what protection can be sought for the area will be fought for.