Local campaign group requests further support for Cheshire's first on-shore wind farm

Local wind campaign group Mersey Wind Energy Supporters (MWES) is asking that all wind energy supporters give their backing to Peel Energy’s proposal for a 20 turbine wind farm on Frodsham and Helsby Marshes in Cheshire, which if permitted, could be Cheshire’s first on-shore wind farm.

Local resident David Hardman, of MWES, said: “This is a well-timed opportunity to play a part in reducing CO2 emissions.

“The proposed Frodsham wind farm could generate enough electricity to meet the needs of 28,500 households - equivalent to more than one-fifth of the homes in Cheshire West and Chester and would help the UK meet its 2020 renewable energy obligations.”

MWES member Professor Andrew Basden said his Frodsham home overlooks the marsh and has said for many years that it is an ideal place for a wind farm.

He said: “I’ve long thought there should be wind generators here, I would be proud to look out of my window and see the elegant turbines helping to contribute to the UK’s renewable energy obligations. But with the number of Nimbies locally, we have an uphill struggle on our hands, even though I think there are actually more supporters for this proposal than opponents, and I ask that as many supporters as possible come out fighting to support this commendable proposal.

“Much of the land has been used for many years to deposit dredgings from the neighbouring Manchester Ship Canal. The site extends to some 557 hectares, although only a small fraction of this land would be taken up by the development. The proposed turbines would be located on the inactive deposit grounds, avoiding the central active lagoon, thereby splitting the turbines into two distinct clusters.”

MWES is grateful of any support that can be provided, and support letters can be generated at http://www.expresssupport.com/microsites/frodsham/ . Andrew Basden of MWES can be contacted on 01928 733930 or alternatively for more information contact the project’s Freefone information line on 0800 169 5290