Shannon Opposes Wind Turbines At Ballyhalbert

Strangford MP Jim Shannon has expressed his concern at another wind turbine proposal for Ballyhalbert.

He said: “There was one passed there some time ago and it was only afterwards that local residents learned of it. This time, however, locals are prepared and knowledgeable in advance of the new proposals which will take this from a wind turbine to becoming technically a wind farm. This is much more detrimental for the Ards.

“Standing at 150-feet, one turbine has already been passed, now an additional one of the exact same height has been applied for. This will certainly impact on homes in the area which are well within the stipulated area where a wind turbine should not be. It also seems to be contrary to the Department’s own criteria and according to the information available, the Ards Peninsula including this location would seem not to be suitable for wind turbines.

“There is also another one planned for not more than a few hundred yards further and this proposal proved to be the line in the sand for local residents. I would urge all locals to let their views be known to the planners in written form. I will also be seeking a meeting with the planners about these applications. It cannot be allowed to progress.

“It would change the area forever impacting on the visual beauties of the area and it would certainly effect the local people with one government body. Northern Ireland Water already are expressing some concern about the impact on the water and sewage system in the area.

“While some wind turbines can and are acceptable at certain locations, there are clearly locations where they just cannot be situated. Ballyhalbert is one of those locations and it is hoped that these proposals will be refused by the Planning Authorities.”