ON FRIDAY June 26, a wind turbine, estimated at 20-25m high, mysteriously appeared in the parish of Morwenstow in North Cornwall.

Sited on what was a market garden but now believed to be used as a turkey slaughter concern, the turbine came as a complete surprise to local residents, the parish council and the planning office at Cornwall Council.

A planning officer has confirmed that planning approval is required for such a structure but that in this instance no such application had been submitted.

It seems that the micro-regeneration policy of the present government allows such developments to go ahead regardless of planning laws, as local authorities are directed to grant retrospective approval specifically for wind turbines.

This opens the floodgates for a massive increase in turbines, irrespective of any harm or inconvenience they may cause to the environment, nearby dwellings and wildlife.

The planning officer said a planning application would have to be submitted. However, rather than it being rubber stamped, wouldn't it be nice if, just for once, someone had the courage to say enough is enough and reject this and similar rule-bending applications.

Morwenstow.