Nov 03 - The Journal - Newcastle-upon-Tyne

Expert consultants are to be asked to study the potential visual impact of a line of massive new wind turbines planned for the Northumberland coast.

The seven turbines proposed at Blyth Harbour would all tower at least 90m from base to rotor blade tip - and one would be the biggest so far in Britain at a total height of 163m.

They would dominate the skyline and loom over nearby homes in Blyth, as well as the villages of North Blyth and Cambois on the opposite side of the river.

Now Wansbeck Council - which will determine the planning application by Hainsford Energy - is commissioning consultants to examine the likely visual impact of the structures on families living in the vicinity.

The study means a decision on whether to approve the bid could be delayed until early next year.

Planning officers at neighbouring Blyth Valley Council have already called on their councillors to object to the application unless a number of concerns are resolved.

These include the visual impact of the turbines and their effect on Blyth's conservation areas and listed buildings.

Residents in North Blyth have voiced their opposition at a public display of the plans and Newcastle Airport has lodged an objection because of the likelihood of the seven turbines interfering with the air traffic control radar system.

Yesterday a Wansbeck Council spokesman confirmed that consultants would be appointed to carry out the study.

He said: "They would look at the possible visual impact of any new turbines on the locality in generally, and Blyth town specifically."

Meanwhile, the South-East Northumberland/North Tyneside Regeneration Initiative, which is working to regenerate the River Blyth Estuary and Blyth town, has given its formal support to the turbines bid.

In a statement to Blyth Valley Council it says it has put renewable energy at the heart of its sustainable development concept for the estuary.

"The wind farm would be a strong visual and practical endorsement of this concept and a strong statement that this concept is meaningful and realistic.

"It would also complement the work of the New and Renewable Energy Centre."

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