Two appeals lodged against wind-turbines

Two appeals lodged against wind-turbines

Two appeals have been lodged with the Environment Court against the decision to allow the Christchurch-based wind-turbine developer, Windflow Technology, to site its first unit at Gebbies Pass on Banks Peninsula. The decision was released by Commissioner Robert Nixon for the Banks Peninsula District Council on 11th October and the appeal period closed last week.

In commenting on the situation, Windflow Executive Director, Geoff Henderson, said: ³We¹ve been working to meet concerns that were expressed at our Open Day in April and in consultations since then. Noise was a particular issue, so we arranged to fly people to Wellington to hear the Brooklyn windmill in operation. We made extensive sound level measurements at the proposed site and at nearby properties where the owners had expressed concern and had consented to the study. We believe that we had addressed all matters of substance in terms of the effects on neighbouring landowners and the delay is very frustrating.

³During this consultation and consent process we have also negotiated a protocol with the Department of Conservation for siting any other wind-turbines on Banks Peninsula. This is a major step forward, and we are appreciative of the positive way in which DOC has dealt with our Company.

"We would also like to acknowledge how supportive the local Runanga, has been. It is very disappointing that a project that has met with almost unanimous support for its environmental and economic benefits, could now be held up for many months because of the backlog of cases before the Environment Court."

The Company is still working to have its first wind-turbine operating this year. ³We¹re assessing our options, and will have to consider other sites,² said Mr. Henderson. ³However, we still believe that this site offers optimum benefits for our first turbine and we are committed to the Court process.²

At its Annual General Meeting on 21st November, the Company will announce its plans for completing the first wind turbine and achieving future growth.

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