Island wind farm plan criticised

Campaigners say the turbines would destroy the local landscape

Campaigners against plans for three wind turbines in an area of natural beauty have presented their concerns at a public meeting.

ThWART (The Wight Against Rural Turbines) voiced opposition at the proposal for Cheverton Down at Shorwell Parish Hall on Wednesday.

Cornwall Light and Power want to build three 125m (410ft) tall turbines which it says will reduce carbon emissions.

But opponents say they will be seen from miles around and ruin the scenery.

'Weighed with benefits'

Ray Tucker, from ThWART, said: "The main concern is the impact these will have on the landscape.

"We are talking about very big structures and they would be mounted 180m (591ft) above sea level.

"You will be able to see these things for miles and miles which means it is not just an island issue."

A planning application is being planned by the developers.

Steve Allen, from Cornwall Light and Power, said: "Landscape and visual effect has been a very big issue.

"But these have to be weighed with the benefits from the proposal, like reducing the island's carbon footprint."