Jamie Hailstone 11 April 2014

Pickles extends wind farm powers

Environmental and energy groups have condemned Eric Pickles after it was revealed the communities secretary has extended his power to call in wind farm proposals.

In a written ministerial statement yesterday, Mr Pickles said he was extending the period in which he can call in planning applications for a further 12 months.

Friends of the Earth’s renewable energy campaigner, Alasdair Cameron, said: ‘It’s ironic that someone who describes himself as the champion of localism is taking control away from communities, and blocking a popular and cheap form of clean power.

‘Rather than tilting at wind turbines, ministers should be looking at ways to increase community ownership of wind power and help wean the nation off increasingly costly fossil fuels.’

The deputy chief executive of RenewableUK, Maf Smith, added: ‘Telling local authorities that they can’t decide on wind applications runs counter to the principles of the Localism Act, and introducing more delays is anti-business.

‘Mr Pickles’ intervention has led to further delays for developers, a couple of project withdrawals, and a court case. The fact that many of the projects he’s called in since June still haven’t had decisions shows that he’s got enough on his plate without adding to it, and disrupting more projects.’

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Residential Worker

Essex County Council
£27934.00 - £35344.00 per annum + + 26 Days Leave & Local Gov Pension
Residential WorkerPermanent, Full Time£27,934 up to £35,344 Per Annum (includes allowance) equal to £14.48 to £18.32 Per HourLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Early Years Keyworker

Royal Borough of Greenwich
£37,068 - £38,058
Want to make a difference for children with special educational needs in Greenwich? Greenwich, London (Greater)
Recuriter: Royal Borough of Greenwich

Early Years Area SENCo

Royal Borough of Greenwich
£39,855 - £42,324
Have you got extensive experience in working within Early Years, with a clear understanding of child development Greenwich, London (Greater)
Recuriter: Royal Borough of Greenwich

Young Persons Substance Misuse Service Pathfinder

Royal Borough of Greenwich
£31,524 - £32,931
Are you looking to change the lives of young people? Greenwich, London (Greater)
Recuriter: Royal Borough of Greenwich

Senior Regulatory Compliance Officer

Royal Borough of Greenwich
£37,068 - £38,058
You will be an apprentice embedded within the Trading Standards team. Greenwich, London (Greater)
Recuriter: Royal Borough of Greenwich
Linkedin Banner