University appeals after wind turbine plan is turned down

The University of Nottingham has appealed after councillors rejected plans to build a wind turbine near the River Trent.

The university wanted to build three 126-metre high turbines on land at Grove Farm, Lenton Lane, to help power its campuses and cut carbon emissions.

The site straddles the Clifton and Beeston boundary, and Broxtowe Borough Council knocked back plans for one of the turbines located in Beeston Rylands.

It has now emerged that the university has appealed to the Secretary of State against this decision.

A university spokesperson said: "The university was extremely disappointed with Broxtowe Borough Council's planning decision last October.

"Having taken time to consider and review their comments in detail we have now lodged an appeal and await the outcome."

The council refused permission for the turbine because it would be too close to the Boots site, which could be developed for housing in the future.

Officers said the turbine would have an unacceptable impact on these plans and councillors said it would affect neighbours.

Council planning officers have written to campaigners, saying: "The appeal is to be decided on the basis of written statements and a site visit by an inspector."

Residents opposed the plan, saying the turbine was too close to their homes.

David Wright, 57, of Cornwall Avenue, Beeston Rylands, said the closest turbine would be 650 metres from his home - but some houses in Clifton would be closer still.

He said: "I had a fair idea that the university would appeal, although I'm a bit surprised.

"I went to the planning meeting and it was a unanimous decision against. For residents like myself and in Clifton, it's an awful plan in terms of the impact it would have.

"The only fundamental reason for refusing was the proposed housing at Boots. If the turbines are built, then no-one will buy those houses.

"You will have a waterfront development that nobody will want to live in."

The university estimates the project could produce a third of its annual electricity for 25 years, and cut its carbon emissions by 7,000 tonnes every year.

The university has also applied to Nottingham City Council for permission to build the two other turbines on the part of Grove Farm that lies within the Clifton boundary.

The application is due before the council's planning committee next month.

What do you think of the plans? Call Alexander Britton on 0115 905 1962 or e-mail alexander.britton@nottinghampostgroup.co.uk.