Positive response to oil giant's wind turbines (From Western Telegraph)

Positive response to oil giant's wind turbines

THERE has been a positive response, for the most part, to wind turbines planned for the Total refinery site at Milford Haven.

Project manager Paul Abbot is pleased with feedback from public consultations in Herbrandston and Milford Haven last week.

While most residents did not object to the four 85-foot turbines in principle, some were concerned that the area was being overloaded.

Norma Hunter, of Herbrandston, said: "We are in a beautiful part of the country that is becoming a dumping ground for everything from power stations to LNG."

She feels planning authorities are not listening to residents.

"They do not seem to realise what a jewel they have here," she said.

Ralph Andrews' Herbrandston home will be 600 metres from a turbine, under existing plans. His only worry is noise. A report on this issue is expected soon.

Concerns were also raised about visual impact.

Shirley-Ann Jones already has a view of the refinery from her home in Robeston West and cannot see the turbines making it any worse.

Total has attempted to locate the turbines in places with a refinery backdrop to minimise intrusion.

Herbrandston's Janet Buckingham backs the project, describing it as a positive step towards cleaner energy.

Cherry Wilson, also of Herbrandston, took a practical view saying: "The wind force around here is great - why not use it?"

Friends of the Earth's Gordon James welcomed the development.

He said: "Wind turbines are, at present, one of the best options to pursue, as the technology is well advanced and they are one of the most cost effective forms of renewable energy available."

Total hopes to submit planning applications to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and Pembrokeshire County Council in September.

Consultants are available at the Total stand at the Pembrokeshire County Show this week to discuss the plans.