Last updated at 16:30, Friday, 19 March 2010

The rejection of a windfarm near Penrith has sent a clear message to developers: “Stay away from Cumbria and build offshore,” an MP said.

Penrith and the Border MP David Maclean said the decision of the inspector, which was endorsed by the Secretary of State, to throw out plans for a nine-turbine site that energy company Wind Prospect hoped to build near Skelton was the best news for Cumbria this year so far.

He said: “We have won on every point we made to the inspector.

“We said that it was too close to the National Park and he agreed.

“We said that it would have an adverse visual impact. It would also adversely affect local residents because it was too close to them.

“We said it would affect the three equine businesses there and that their jobs were more important. He agreed with all of this.

“Let this message go out to every operator who thinks they can come to Cumbria, despoil our landscape and give nothing back.

“Pack up now and get out. If you are so keen on wind farms then go off-shore.

“This augurs well for the Berrier inquiry where the landscape under Blencathra is even more precious. However, we cannot relax our guard.”

Opponents of the plans said their case hinged on several key factors.

They argued that the effect on three major racing stables, based near the proposed turbines, could lead to a loss of jobs in the area.

They also had concerns about the grade one-listed Scales Hall and the impact on the local landscape.

The site at Grise is two miles from the edge of the Lake District National Park.

The inquiry last November was launched after Wind Prospect appealed against Eden Council’s non-determination over the matter, although Eden later lodged its formal opposition to the scheme.

First published at 14:15, Friday, 19 March 2010
Published by http://www.cumberlandnews.co.uk