Chance to comment on Woolfox planning application

People have the chance to comment on plans for a solar farm and nine wind turbines on a former airfield.

Energy firm RES has submitted planning applications for the Woolfox site. They are now available to view on Rutland County Council’s website, where people can also leave their comments.

RES development manager Chris Banks said: “The concept of bringing together a number of renewable energy technologies at one site, such as RES is proposing for the former Woolfox airfield, is a very new concept for the UK.

“We believe that Woolfox Wind and Solar Farms together present an exciting opportunity for Rutland to become a leading ‘green’ authority capable of generating sufficient renewable electricity to meet the needs of all the homes in the county from a single renewables hub. What other county in England could make that claim?”

The company held several public consultation events prior to submitting its plans.

An action group, Stop Woolfox Wind Farm, was set up to oppose the development and has been campaigning actively in the area. Member Colin Ashpole said the turbines would spoil the attractive Rutland countryside.

He also cited concerns about noise, interference with radar, danger to wildlife and the proposal to use overhead cables to take the power generated south of Stamford.

To view and comment on the plans visit www.rutland.gov.uk/planning and use the application reference 2014/1003/MAJ for the wind farm and 2014/1004/MAJ for the solar farm.