Accusations of bullying in wind farm debate (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Accusations of bullying in wind farm debate

BULLY-boy tactics and intimidation are being used to scare off anti-wind protesters in one Cotswold village it was revealed this week.

More than 100 people crammed into Miserden Village Hall on Monday night to hear Green Amp boss Nick Brown outline his proposals for a site near Wayside Farm.

But the meeting was marred by accusation of threats being made to those opposing the plans.

Miserden resident Linda Grimwood said: "Is Mr Brown aware that members of the parish have been intimidated? Bully boy tactics have been used.

"People are afraid for their and their families' safety. I cannot believe he would condone or carry out this. I want assurance that these acts will not continue."

Mr Brown admitted he was aware of one incident which had taken place, saying: "I am aware of the police complaint and I have spoken to the person concerned and said it is improper. I take this as important and personal as the behaviour is not appropriate and you have my commitment that whatever I can do to prevent this will be done."

During the meeting Mr Brown faced a barrage of complaints from residents opposing his plans.

Many were concerned about the noise generated by the turbines as well as their close proximity to nearby houses.

But the main point of criticism was because the proposed development is in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

John Senior asked why Mr Brown had planned to build in the AONB when the Gloucestershire Renewable Energy Action Plan stated that the county can meet its renewable energy targets with developments outside the AONB.

Another resident, Rupert Barrington, asked why Mr Brown and the owner of the site should benefit from other peoples' loss of view and peace.

A straw poll conducted at the end of the meeting showed the majority of the residents attending the meeting opposed the plans with just two of those present backing the scheme.

Earlier this year Mr Brown enraged residents when he said the majority of opponents to wind farms would not be alive to see the affects of climate change.

He said this week he hopes to have the Miserden turbines erected in April next year.

The owner of the proposed site was unavailable for comment this week.