A GREATER number of wind turbine appeals are being turned down by the planning inspectorate, following the publication of new planning guidance last summer, Geoffrey Cox MP for Torridge and West Devon has been told by the Department for Communities and Local Government.

Speaking at a Westminster debate secured by the MP last week, Kris Hopkins, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, also stated the department's commitment to safeguarding the natural environment and to giving communities a greater say over planning decisions in their area.

He also stressed that as part of this commitment planning regulations changed at the end of last year to ensure that pre-application consultations are compulsory for all proposed developments of two or more turbines, or where the hub height of any turbine exceeds 15 metres."

For the full report, and a round up of the latest news and sport, see this week's edition of the Post.