Milton Keynes Council Launches Separation Distance Consultation

Milton Keynes Council has produced restrictive separation distance proposals between wind turbines and residences for inclusion within its planning policy - subject to the outcome of public consultation. A formal consultation period of eight weeks on the proposals began today (2^nd. February).

The council's proposals are explained within its ‘Wind Turbines Supplementary Planning Document’, which includes the following comment:

Mapping work undertaken has shown a separation distance of 1km or more would severely restrict, if not prevent, the development of wind farms in the Borough. However, if smaller wind turbines are proposed which have a reduced impact in terms of noise and visual impact, then a more permissive graded distance approach may be justified.

Regardless of this acknowledgement, the council’s proposal specifically includes a separation distance of 1km for turbines that have a tip height of 100m. The distance is to be extended for turbines with a higher tip height. Many of the turbines that developers are requesting planning permission for within the area are 100m to tip height or more.

Alan Francis, Milton Keynes Green Party member, has been reported in MK News as saying:

 “I’m very concerned that this is an attempt via the back door to stop any more applications for wind turbines in Milton Keynes.”

Click here for full information about the consultation and how to respond.

Click here for Wind Turbines Supplementary Planning Document.