Campaigners need financial support for High Court challenge

WIND FARM VICTIMS SEARCH FOR SUPPORT

By Gavin Moore

Rural residents campaigning against a wind farm near Helmdon have launched a £40,000 fundraising appeal in support of a High Court Challenge.

Last week members of the Helmdon, Stuchbury and Greatworth Wind Action Group (HSGWAG) attended a public meeting called by South Northants MP Andrea Leadsom who updated residents on the challenge to plans for five turbines at Spring Ridge Farm, just off the B4525.

After a planning inspector overturned a decision by South Northants Council in July to refuse Broadview Energy planning permission, the group was joined by Greatworth resident Veronica Ward as co-claimant in the High Court challenge.

HSGWAG chairman Keith Jones said they had already received some generous pledges, but the meeting had also been the official launch of the fund raising drive.

He said: “We’ve already emailed people in the village, and basically, not to put too fine a point on it, we are asking them for money.  We’re also looking at those with broader shoulders and asking them more directly for as much money as they can give.  We are also talking to the various parish councils to see if there’s anything they can do to help.”

Broadview Energy has said after two years of research they believe the turbines will be capable of powering 6,000 homes.

Mrs Ward said people are being supportive because they do not believe onshore wind turbine(s) are the solution to global warming and added: ”If allowed this will open the flood gates to wind farm developers.”

Brackley & Towcester Advertiser – 5 October 2012