High Court judge grants Hethel turbines

Campaigners against three wind turbines at a Norfolk sports car manufacturer have today failed in their bid to overturn a planning decision.

A High Court judge in London this morning ruled that there was “no basis” for quashing South Norfolk Council's approval for a wind farm development at Lotus Cars on the old Hethel airfield, near Wymondham.

Mr Justice Cranston rejected claims by Friends of Hethel Ltd that the decision to grant permission to renewable energy company Ecotricity was unconstitutional and complaints about the way councillors dealt with issues such as noise, safety and the effect on listed buildings.

The judge did grant a declaration that the council wrongly failed to inform the public of its decision and of their right to seek judicial review, but made no difference to the outcome of the case.

Planning permission for the 120m high turbines, off Potash Lane, was narrowly approved by a South Norfolk Council planning committee last year by 8 votes to 7.

Objections raised by residents included noise, safety, visual impact, the effect on listed buildings, shadow flicker, and television reception.

The turbines will generate enough power for the Lotus Cars factory and electricity more than 1,000 homes.

See the full story and reaction to the High Court decision in tomorrow's EDP.