Controversial plans for turbine revived

Plans have been revived for a giant wind turbine that residents claim would block their view of a historic cathedral.

The turbine is being proposed for the Curborough area of Lichfield, despite having been rejected previously. People living in and around the area now have the opportunity to meet with Severn Trent Water's consultancy team to discuss the proposals.

Last year Lichfield District Council turned down the controversial scheme for a 415ft turbine at the water company's sewage treatment works on Watery Lane, off Eastern Avenue.

Severn Trent appealed but a planning inspector rejected it in March.

A residents' campaign was mounted after the initial planning application was lodged for a single structure with three carbon fibre blades amid fears that the proposals would impact on the views of the historic cathedral and their homes.

Lichfield MP Michael Fabricant and Alrewas Parish Council also objected.

Severn Trent Water claimed the turbine would provide enough "clean renewable energy" to power around 1,398 households a year but councillors turned down the application in March last year as "domineering and overbearing."

Severn Trent is holding an exhibition on Thursday, August 25 at Curborough sewage treatment works compound between 3pm and 8pm. Members of the company's renewable energy team will be on hand to answer questions.

Jon Beeson, Severn Trent's renewable energy projects specialist, said: "We understand that local residents and businesses will have many questions and concerns.

"This is why we have organised an open exhibition, not only to discuss proposals in more detail but to allow visitors the opportunity to provide feedback."