Wind farm would pose a serious health risk, claim

Six wind turbines earmarked for the South Staffordshire countryside would pose "serious consequences to the health, safety and wellbeing of residents" it has been claimed.

Campaigners say increased traffic congestion and noise due to the turbines would also blight residents' lives.

A public inquiry is under way into the proposals for the six 413ft wind turbines at Brineton, near Weston Park. Bristol-based Wind Prospect Developments Ltd has appealed against South Staffordshire Council's refusal for the turbines.

Around 80 people attended the village hall at nearby Blymhill yesterday to air their concerns as part of the inquiry.

Objector Simon Moore said the turbines would lower the quality of life for locals.

He said: "My biggest fear is of the mechanical and wind noise from the turbines.

"This will be highlighted at night when the area is near-silent.

"My house is of a predominately timber frame construction with bedroom ceilings inside the roof space. Many of the walls are just four inches thick. This construction is likely to amplify the noise of the turbines.

"One of the reasons that our fragile home has survived more than 400 years is the tranquillity of its surroundings.

Church Eaton Parish Councillor Peter Harriman, said: "My concerns are with the certain increase in traffic and dangers that the building of the windfarm will present.

"The nature of this area is unique and to site a windfarm here is inappropriate with potentially serious consequences to the health, safety and wellbeing of residents."

Robert Giles and wife Yvonne, from Paradise Cottage in Birchmoor Lane, near Marston, were among those at the meeting.

Mr Giles, 63, said: "We live in a really tranquil area and anyone who comes to our home says how quiet it is.

"We don't want to lose that. Two of the turbines would be around 700 metres from my house."