The Fullabrook wind farm site is being prepared and construction of turbines is due to start in the autumn. ADAS Environmental Consultants provided specialist support for the planning application for this strategic development which will help ensure that Devon meets its renewable energy targets.
Following a Public Inquiry, in October 2007 plans to build a 22 turbine wind farm at Fullabrook in North Devon were approved by the Secretary of State. Fullabrook, situated in a beautiful part of the countryside between Barnstaple and Ilfracombe, will be one of the largest wind farms in England.
Although this decision was subsequently challenged by North Devon District Council, the challenge was dismissed in the High Court and the project will now go ahead.
Challenge
To provide wind farm operators Devon Wind Power with the comprehensive evidence necessary to demonstrate that Fullabrook is the best site in the county for the project.
Solution
ADAS Environmental Consultants conducted a capacity study for the entire County of Devon in order to ascertain how it might best meet renewable energy targets set by Government. Using GIS, landscape assessment and computer modelling, suitable sites throughout the county were identified and assessed. The study concluded that to meet Devon’s targets with the least landscape impact, a strategic wind farm at Fullabrook was required.
Results
The Planning Inspector concluded that based on the evidence produced by ADAS, Devon was more likely to achieve its renewable energy targets by allowing one large strategic wind farm development, rather than a multitude of smaller schemes. This formed an important part of his reasoning in allowing the Fullabrook development to be approved. The installed capacity of the Fullabrook site will be 66 megawatts, and will make a significant contribution towards delivering Devon’s renewable
energy target for 2010.
For further information on how ADAS can assist in planning applications and suitability analysis for wind farms or wind turbines, please contact William Little by e-mail william.little@adas.co.uk or telephone 01823 289245.