A hot debate has brewed in north Pembrokeshire over plans to swap an existing wind turbine for an even bigger one at Sarnau Farm. Surrey-based Constantine Wind Energy Limited faced fierce opposition when they initially proposed a 102-metre-high turbine. Locals and the community council were worried about the potential impact on the landscape and noise levels. Eventually, the Met Office added their concerns, leading to a revised plan: a slightly smaller 64-metre turbine.
Despite opposition, the planning committee just greenlit the new proposal. Supporters argue that the replacement will help hit Net Zero targets by capturing more wind more efficiently. But locals aren’t impressed. Councillor Iwan Ward and residents, like Wyn Thomas, are raising alarms over noise, shadow flicker, and the fear of property devaluation.
Thomas shared his ordeal of noise issues from the current turbine, revealing he had to invest in a £2,000 noise assessment. Meanwhile, Richard Grist from Constantine points out that the new turbine would have no objections from the Met Office, highlighting its supposed efficiency.
In a split decision, the planning committee pushed the plan forward with 11 votes for and just one against. The new turbine could change the local skyline, but what do you think of the trade-off between renewable energy and community impact? Drop your thoughts below! 🌿💭