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www.engena.co.uk PREPARED ON BEHALF OF Pre-Application Consultation Report CEFN Y MAES COMMUNITY RENEWABLE ENERGY PARK FEBRUARY 2017

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Page 1: CEFN Y MAES COMMUNITY RENEWABLE ENERGY PARK Pre ... · 3. PREFACE. This Pre-Application Consultation Report forms part of the planning application documentation . submitted for the

www.engena.co.uk

PREPARED ON BEHALF OF

Pre-Application Consultation ReportCEFN Y MAES COMMUNITY RENEWABLE ENERGY PARK

FEBRUARY 2017

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PREFACE

This Pre-Application Consultation Report forms part of the planning application documentation submitted for the proposed Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park.

A complete Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is provided for the proposal and is reported within the Environmental Statement (ES) that comprises three volumes. The volumes of the complete ES are described in the following table, along with the additional documentation submitted with the planning application by the applicant (Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park Limited).

Document Title Contents

ES Volume 1Non-Technical

SummarySummarises the proposal and the key conclusions

of the EIA for the non-technical reader

ES Volume 2 Written Statement Presents the full assessments of the EIA

ES Volume 2 AppendicesPresents the appendices referred

to in the Written Statement

ES Volume 3Figures and

Visualisations

Presents the figures referred to in the Written Statement and the visualisations referred to in the Landscape and Visual Impact

Assessment (LVIA) and Heritage Assessment, both within the Written Statement.

Planning Application Documents

Design and Access Statement

Describes the site design approach and evolution, and proposed access to and within the site.

Pre-Application Consultation Report

Describes the pre-application consultation procedure and responses received.

Planning StatementSummarises the planning policy

context of the proposal.

Printed copies of all three volumes in addition to the Planning Statement, Design and Access Statement and Pre-Application Consultation Report are available at:

• Powys Council Offices, Spa Road East, Llandrindod Wells, Powys, LD1 5LG;

• Llanfyllin Public Library, Youth and Community Centre, Llanfyllin, Powys, SY22 5BB; and

• Oswestry Public Library, Arthur Street, Oswestry, Shropshire, SY11 1JN.

The above locations also have computer facilities to view the document through the project specific website at www.cefnymaes.co.uk or via Powys Council website, planning section.

Additional printed copies can be purchased at a cost of £500 +VAT or digital versions on CD-ROM at a cost of £10 +VAT. To order copies, please contact Engena Limited at:

The Old Stables, Bosmere Hall, Kettle Lane, Creeting St Mary, IP6 8LL.

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Contents

Introduction 6

Pre-Application Consultation Methodology 7

Responses to Consultation 15

Impacts Identified, By topic 77

Conclusions 80

References 81

Appendix 1 - Site Notice Copy and On-site Record 82

Appendix 2 - Copy of Schedule 1B Notice 85

Appendix 3 - Copy of Schedule 1C Notice 87

Appendix 4 - Distributed Consultation Documents 89

PRE-APPLICATION CONSULTATION REPORT

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INTRODUCTION

PAC1 This document provides a detailed report of the consultation approach, methods, and responses received during a specific pre-application consultation period for the Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park. The document goes on to set out how matters raised by consultees have been incorporated in the final Environmental Statement and associated Planning Application Documentation, and finally draws conclusions from the consultation exercise.

PAC2 Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park Limited is proposing the development of a single wind turbine, ground mounted photovoltaic solar panel array and energy storage facility, on land approximately 1km north of Cefn Canol and 2.2km north-west of Rhydycroesau.

PAC3 Due to the scale of the proposal (development area over 1ha), in accordance with Article 2 of the Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (Wales) Order 2012, Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park constitutes major development.

PAC4 In advance of submission, pre-application consultation was undertaken with the local community. Residents and businesses surrounding the proposed development have been consulted upon the plans for the Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park in accordance with Article 1 of the Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (Wales) (Amendment) Order 2016.

PAC5 The methods of public consultation undertaken by REG Power Management in collaboration with Engena (together forming Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park Limited) for this proposal were developed from many years experience and guided by best practice from within the wind and solar industry. The scope of public consultation is considered appropriate for the scale and type of development proposed and is in full accordance with Article 1 of the Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (Wales) (Amendment) Order 2016. Hereafter, this order may simply be referred to as ‘Article 1 (2016)’

PAC6 The specific requirements of a Pre-Application Report are provided by the Article 1 Guidance on Pre-application Consultation document (2016). For ease of reference the requirements are tabulated below with cross reference to where the matters can be found within this report.

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Table PAC1 - Required contents of the Pre-Application Report according to Article 1 of the Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (Wales) (Amendment)

Order 2016

Paragraph 44 Requirement Location in PACa) a copy of the site notice; Appendix 1b) a declaration that the site notice was displayed in accordance

with the statutory requirements, i.e. in at least one place on or near the development site for no less than 28 days;

From Paragraph PAC10 on

page 8c) a copy of the site notice given to owners and occupiers of

adjoining land;Appendix 2

d) copies of all notices provided to councillors, town and community councils, and specialist consultees;

Appendix 2 and Appendix 3

e) a summary of all issues raised in response to the statutory publicity (i.e. site notice and letters to owners, occupiers) - the developer must confirm whether the issues have been addressed and, if so, how they have been addressed; and

From Paragraph PAC51 on page 77

f) copies of all responses received from specialist consultees with a reference to where each response has been addressed by the developer.

Table PAC2

PRE-APPLICATION CONSULTATION METHODOLOGY

PAC7 As described at Paragraph PAC5 on page 6, the approach to consultation has been developed over many years experience in the renewables sector. The developer considers public consultation to be an important part of the planning process and will always undertake a level of public consultation proportionate to the scale of the proposed development.

PAC8 In the case of the Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park, the proposal is considered to be Major Development and is assessed through EIA. The development involves a single wind turbine, small solar array and energy storage facility with associated infrastructure and so could be considered to be relatively small compared to the scope of what could comprise major development.

PAC9 Consultation in this case therefore, is approached principally by contacting relevant community and specialist consultees and seeking views of the potential environmental impacts. The level of consultation proposed was discussed with Powys County Council ahead of mobilising. The Council agreed that an approach in line with (Article 1 of) the Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (Wales) (Amendment) Order 2016 would be appropriate.

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Site Notice

PAC10 In accordance with Paragraph 3, bullet point, of Article 1 of the Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (Wales) (Amendment) Order 2016 a site notice in the form of Schedule 1B to the Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (Wales) (Amendment) Order 2016 was placed at three locations near to the proposed Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park.

PAC11 A site notice was placed at:

• the existing farm entrance which will form the site entrance for the proposal;

• the Public Right of Way (PRoW) running adjacent to the south border of the proposed development area; and

• the noticeboard at Rhydycroesau Village Hall.

PAC12 The proposed site is in a relatively remote location, so to provide the best coverage of notice to residents in the wider area, the third site notice in Rhydycroesau was considered appropriate. The locations listed at Paragraph PAC11 are shown in plan form relative to the site at Plate PAC1. A photographic record of the notices in place is contained at Appendix 1, along with a copy of the erected site notice.

PAC13 The guidance states that at least one site notice should be placed on or near the land of the proposed application. Thereby the applicant for Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park has exceeded the requirements on this point.

PAC14 Notices were erected on Wednesday 18th January 2017, and regularly checked during the pre-application consultation period to ensure they were still in place and legible. No replacements notices were needed during the consultation period, which ended on Monday 20th February 2017. The period during which site notices were on display lasted 33 days, in excess of the 28-day minimum requirement of the guidance.

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Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park

© Crown Copyright. All rights reserved, 2017. Licence number 0100031673. Scale; 1:20 000 at A4

Proposed Development Location Site Notice Locations

Plate PAC1 - Location of site notices relative to proposed renewable energy park

Consultation Website

PAC15 During the Environmental Impact Assessment phase for the proposed Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park, a dedicated project website was published (www.cefnymaes.co.uk).

PAC16 This website acted as a platform to host the draft Environmental Statement for reference during the pre-application consultation period. The information consulted upon was available from 4pm on 23rd January 2017 to 22nd February 2017: allowing over 28 days to access the draft documentation (as required by Article 1 of the Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (Wales) (Amendment) Order 2016).

PAC17 The key documents that form the planning application were published in draft form. The documents that were available on the project website for the duration of the pre-application public consultation period were:

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PRE-APPLICATION CONSULTATION REPORT

• Environmental Statement Volume 2 - Written Statement;

• Environmental Statement Volume 3 - Figures and Visualisations; and the Design and Access Statement.

PAC18 Volume 1 of the Environmental Statement was omitted at the pre-application stage as it provides no additional information to that in Volumes 2 and 3. It is a significantly condensed version of the ES and so for the purposes of transparency and providing the key information available at the draft stage of the application it was not appropriate to publish the Non-Technical Summary until the assessments and other application documents were finalised.

PAC19 A contact form was available on the website from its launch, and remains active, to allow comments and queries about the proposed development to be directed to the applicant. Comments received via the website during the pre-application consultation period have been considered in this report from Paragraph PAC44 on page 15.

PAC20 The Article 1 Guidance (2016) encourages the use of web based material for speed and convenience of consultation. A copy of the website screen view (taken 23rd January 2017) is provided at Appendix 4.

Local Planning Authority

PAC21 Consultation took place with the Local Planning Authority from early stages of the project planning, through screening and scoping and during the subsequent Environmental Impact Assessment process. Powys County Council Officers provided information and clarification of the scope for matters such as the landscape and visual impact assessment and definitive routes of public access within the site vicinity.

PAC22 Chapter 5 of the Environmental Statement, Volume 2 discusses consultation with Powys County Council further. All responses received during the Screening and Scoping processes are reported and cross-referenced to where points raised are addressed in the Environmental Statement. Neighbouring Shropshire County Council were also consulted through the Scoping process.

PAC23 Prior to submission, at the point of a draft Environmental Statement being available, further consultation was opened with Officers at the Local Planning Authority. A consultation letter and leaflet with a pre-paid response postcard for comments about the development (Appendix 4), together with the site notice for specialist consultees (a copy of which is provided at Appendix 3), were sent to relevant Powys County Council Officers in hard copy on 20th January 2017. The same documents were also emailed to the Officers on 24th January 2017. The consultation letter directed Officers to the project website where the draft Design and Access Statement, Draft Environmental Statement, Written Text, and Draft Environmental Statement Figures and Visualisations were available for viewing and download.

PAC24 Powys County Council Officers consulted during the Pre-Application Consultation Period are:

• Ms Kate Bowen, Planning Officer;

• Mr Graham Astley, Senior Land Drainage Officer;

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Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park

• Ms Nina Davies, Countryside Services;

• Mr. S. Mackintosh, Rights of Way Senior Manager;

• Mr. Carwyn Jones, Senior Environmental Health Officer; and

• Mrs Rachel Probert, Ecologist.

PAC25 In addition to the consultees noted at Paragraph PAC24, Mr Kelvin Hall, Technical Specialist Planning Officer at Shropshire County Council, was consulted as a neighbour to the scheme.

PAC26 As guided by Article 1 (2016), consultees were given over 28 days prior to submission of a planning application to review the draft environmental and application information.

PAC27 Responses received from Powys County Council and Shropshire County Council during the pre-application consultation period are provided in Table PAC2 and discussed from Paragraph PAC51.

Specialist Consultees

PAC28 In accordance with Article 1 Guidance (2016), Paragraph 18 and 31, the Applicant has consulted with specialist consultees relevant to the proposed development. These consultees are:

• Welsh Assembly Government (planning);

• Welsh Assembly Government Highways Authority;

• Cadw;

• Natural Resources Wales;

• Clwyd Powys Archaeological Trust;

• Historic England;

• Natural England;

• Defence Estates/ Ministry of Defence (MoD);

• Civil Aviation Authority (CAA);

• National Air Traffic Services (NATS);

• RSPB;

• North Wales Wildlife Trust;

• Montgomeryshire Wildlife Trust; and

• Severn Trent Water.

PAC29 The list of appropriate specialist consultees was established through reference to Schedule 4 of the Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (Wales) (Amendment) Order 2016, and to mirror the consultees identified by Powys Council as relevant through the scoping process.

PAC30 The Specialist Consultees received a consultation letter and leaflet with a pre-paid response postcard for comments about the development (Appendix 4), together

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PRE-APPLICATION CONSULTATION REPORT

with the site notice (Appendix 3) via the post and followed with an email copy. Consultees were also directed to the project website, where copies of the Draft Design and Access Statement, Draft Environmental Statement documents were available for viewing and download.

PAC31 During this correspondence, North Wales Wildlife Trust informed Engena that the proposed development is sited within an area covered by Montgomeryshire Wildlife Trust. As such, Montgomeryshire Wildlife Trust was consulted with the same documentation noted at Paragraph PAC30.

PAC32 Specialist consultees were allowed 28 days to respond to consultation, for comments to be reported within the Environmental Statement. Comments received past the consultation deadline are also considered by the developer and will be addressed through the planning determination phase, if necessary. Responses received from specialist consultees during the pre-application consultation period are provided in Table PAC2 and discussed from Paragraph PAC51.

Community Councils and Councillors

PAC33 A key aim of the pre-application consultation process was to notify the local community and obtain views to shape the proposed development. To fulfil this requirement, the developer informed Llansilin Community Council, Selattyn and Gobowen Parish Council and Oswestry Rural Parish Council. The proposed site is within the boundary of Llansilin Community Council Area.

PAC34 In addition to the Community Councils, the relevant local council members were consulted. For the proposed development, the councillors contacted are:

• Councillor John Powell (Powys County Council Portfolio Holder for Environment and Sustainability);

• Councillor David Lloyd MBE (Shropshire County Council Ward member for Gobowen, Selattyn and Weston Rhyn);

• Councillor Robert Macey (Shropshire County Council Ward member for Gobowen, Selattyn and Weston Rhyn); and

• Councillor Aled Davies (Powys Ward Councillor for Llansilin).

PAC35 In compliance with Article 1 Guidance (2016) the community consultees were contacted by letter and/or email (Appendix 4) and sent a copy of the Schedule 1B notice (as provided at Appendix 2). In addition to the requirements of the guidance, the community consultees were provided with the project newsletter and direction to the project website (Appendix 3).

PAC36 The draft Environmental Statement documents and draft Design and Access Statement were made available to the community consultees for over 28 days, in accordance with the Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (Wales) (Amendment) Order 2016. Responses received from community consultees are provided in Table PAC3 and discussed from Paragraph PAC51.

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Residents

PAC37 As set out in Article 1 of the Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (Wales) (Amendment) Order 2016, in advance of submission pre-application consultation was undertaken with the local community.

PAC38 Following consultation with Powys County Council, residents and businesses surrounding the proposed development have been consulted upon the plans for the Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park.

PAC39 The Article 1 Guidance (2016) advises that a judgement needs to be made on a case by case basis for the appropriate scope of consultation with residents. The parallel is made to the judgement required of the local planning authority, on who comprises the adjacent owners and occupiers.

PAC40 In the specific setting of the Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park there are very few immediate neighbours to the development. Within an approximate 1.5km radius of the site there are 27 dwellings identified through an examination of Ordnance survey Maps and postcode data, at the time of consultation. In order to include the nearest hamlets and villages (such as Cefn Canol and Rhydycroesau) the consultation area deemed appropriate for the scale of the proposal, was extended to an approximate 3km radius from the site.

PAC41 106 properties within approximately 3km radius of the proposed development (Plate PAC2) were sent a consultation letter including a leaflet detailing the proposal and a pre-paid response postcard for comments about the development. A copy of the documents sent to the development neighbours is contained at Appendix 4. Site notices, as provided at Appendix 2, were also enclosed.

PAC42 Recognising that English and Welsh are both official languages in the vicinity of the proposed development, the consultation letter, leaflet and notice were provided in both languages.

PAC43 Responses received from the neighbouring public are provided in Table PAC4 and discussed from Paragraph PAC51.

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PRE-APPLICATION CONSULTATION REPORT

Llansilin Community

Selattyn and Gobowen CP

Oswestry Rural CP

Glyntraian Community

Ceiriog Ucha Community

Weston Rhyn CPLlansantffraid Glyn Ceiriog Community0 0.5 1

kilometres

1:25,000Scale: @ A3

Drawn: SN

Project: Cefn-y-MaesTitle: Community Benefit Fund ZoningRotor Diameter: 52m / Tip Height: 101m

Date: February 2017

Turbine Locaiton: E:322880 N:332497

REG Power Management Ltd,First Floor, Telegraph House, Calenick Street,Truro, Conrwall, TR1 2SFTel: 01872 226930W: www.regpower.co.uk

-

Drawing: 170130_Cefn y Maes_Community Benefit Fund Zoning_030_0.01 © Crown copyright and database rights [2017] Ordnance Survey 0040091384

Drawing Number: 30 Drawing Version: 0.01

Checked: CG

Legend

Turbine Location

1km Distance Band

3km Distance Band

Parish Regions

1 km 3 kmGlyntraian Community

Selattyn and Gobowen CP

Oswestry Rural CP

Llansilin Community

Ceiriog Ucha Community

Llansantffraid Glyn Ceiriog Community

ParishWithin

© Crown Copyright. All rights reserved, 2017. Licence number 0100031673. Scale; 1:50 000 at A4

Proposed development location

Parish Boundaries

1km radius from site

3km radius from site

Parishes Proximity to Proposed Site

Parish Within 1km

Within 3km

Glyntraian Community ü ü

Selattyn and Gobowen CP ü ü

Oswestry Rural Parish ü ü

Llansilin Community ü ü

Ceiriog Ucha Community û ü

Llansantffraid Gly Ceiriog Community û ü

Plate PAC2 - Consultation Area for Proposal Neighbours

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Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park

RESPONSES TO CONSULTATION

PAC44 Views about the proposed Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park have been provided by a variety of modes including: email, consultation postcard, web contact form, telephone message and/or conversation and letter. All correspondence received since 23rd January 2017 to the point of planning application submission (22nd February 2017) has been considered and incorporated within the final Environmental Statement and associated planning documents.

Local Planning Authority and Specialist Consultees

PAC45 Responses from Powys County Council, Shropshire Council and Specialised Consultees are provided below in Table PAC2 with cross reference to the relevant section of the application where matters raised have been addressed in the Environmental Statement. The comments received are considered by topic from Paragraph PAC51.

Table PAC2 - Feedback from Local Planning Authorities and Specialist Consultees

Consultee Question or Comment Received Reference of discussion

Local Authority ConsulteesMs Kate Bowen, Planning Officer, Powys County

Council

No response during Jan/Feb 2017 pre-application consultation period.

-

Mr Graham Astley, Senior

Land Drainage Officer, Powys County Council

20/02/17

Thank you for consulting Powys LLFA. Earlier contact had been made by your Flood Risk Consultant, Wallingford HydroSolutions Ltd, and I note that

this feedback has been acknowledged within the supporting documentation for this proposal. Having

reviewed the proposals, particularly Chapter 9: Hydrology & Hydrogeology - Volume 2 Part 2 of the Draft Written Statement, the initial concerns raised by the LLFA regarding the surface water disposal have been considered and the design concepts put forward in Chapter 9 incorporate appropriate

methods of disposal for the construction and operational phases for this development. I would therefore recommend that a detailed design for

surface water drainage on this development follow the ‘Conclusions and Recommendations’ set out in Chapter 9 : Hydrology & Hydrogeology - Volume 2 Part 2 of the Draft Written Statement, and that this

detailed design be submitted and approved in writing by the LPA prior to any commencement on site.

ES Volume 2 Paragraphs 9.37, 9.46

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PRE-APPLICATION CONSULTATION REPORT

Consultee Question or Comment Received Reference of discussion

Ms Nina Davies, Countryside

Services, Powys County Council

No response during Jan/Feb 2017 pre-application consultation period.

-

Mr. S. Mackintosh, Rights of Way

Senior Manager, Powys County

Council

No response during Jan/Feb 2017 pre-application consultation period.

-

Mr. Carwyn Jones, Senior Environmental Health Officer, Powys County

Council

No response during Jan/Feb 2017 pre-application consultation period.

-

Mrs Rachel Probert, Ecologist,

Powys County Council

No response during Jan/Feb 2017 pre-application consultation period.

-

Mr Kelvin Hall, Technical Specialist

Planning Officer, Shropshire

County Council

15/02/17

I refer to your pre-application consultation with Shropshire Council as a specialist consultee as defined by article 2(1) of the Town and Country

Planning (Development Management Procedure) (Wales) Order 2012. I understand that Shropshire Council, as a local planning authority, has been included in your pre-application consultation as the proposed development is likely to affect land in Shropshire. I have consulted with specialist

teams within the authority, and would provide you with pre-application advice as below. Location: The proposed development would be located adjacent to the Shropshire Council boundary. The submitted plan indicates that the proposed temporary access

track would be within Shropshire. Given the location, scale and nature of the proposed development it is

likely to have an impact upon land within Shropshire. Any planning application should provide a sufficient level of detail to identify these impacts and ensure that they can be properly assessed. Environmental Impact Assessment: The proposed development

should be screened under the Environmental Impact Assessment regulations to determine whether an EIA should accompany the planning application.

ES Volume 2 Table 5.3

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 6.19

onwards

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Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park

Consultee Question or Comment Received Reference of discussion

Mr Kelvin Hall, Technical Specialist

Planning Officer, Shropshire

County Council

cont...

Landscape and amenity: An appropriately detailed landscape and visual impact appraisal will need to

be submitted and this should include an assessment of landscape and visual impacts in relation to

visual receptors within Shropshire. The planning application should include an assessment of likely

glint and glare effects or shadow flicker on receptors, or reasons as to why this is not necessary. The

application should provide clarity in relation to the anticipated timescale for the development, and measures for the decommissioning of the site.

I would advise that details should be provided as to the measures that would be put in place to ensure that robust decommissioning arrangements can be put in place to avoid any longer term issues

regarding the reinstatement of the site. Highways and access: Details of the proposed temporary access track should be provided, including construction

specification, type and number of vehicles proposed to use it, proposed duration and hours of use, and

proposals for reinstatement. Details of any proposed access onto the public highway should be provided,

including geometry and visibility. Details of both construction and operational traffic should be

provided. Any comments received from the Council’s highway team will be forwarded to you separately.

Historic conservation Shropshire Council’s Historic Environment team have provided the following

comments: The proposed development is understood to be a renewable energy park, to comprise a 101m

high wind turbine, a 2,590 solar panel array, an energy storage facility and associated infrastructure.

Whilst the site of the energy park is located within Powys, it is understood that the associated access track falls within Shropshire. Further, that the site is located in an elevated location at c. 370m OD in the

saddle of a north-west to south-east ridge line. It is understood that Historic England provided a EIA Screening response for a similar scheme on the 11 May 2016, on which we also subsequently provided

a pre-application advice (ref. PREAPP/16/01757).

ES Volume 2 Chapter 10

ES Volume 2 Chapter 14

ES Volume 2 Chapter 7

ES Volume 2 Chapter 8

ES Volume 2 Chapter 11

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Consultee Question or Comment Received Reference of discussion

Mr Kelvin Hall, Technical Specialist

Planning Officer, Shropshire

County Council

cont...

Given the height and location of the wind turbine, the proposed development has the potential to have an impact on the settings, and thereby the significance, of a range of designated and non-designated heritage assets within Shropshire.

These include the Scheduled Monuments of Offa’s Dyke; the Listed Buildings within the settlement of Llawnt; the Registered Park and Garden and Conservation Area of Brogyntyn Park and the

associated heritage assets within it; and potentially also the Scheduled Monument of Old Oswestry Hillfort and associated section of Wat’s Dyke.

The proposed access track within Shropshire also has the potential to have a direct impact on the

significance of currently unrecorded archaeological features and deposits. Given the above, and with regard to the requirements set out in Paragraph

128 of the NPPF and Policy MD13 of the SAMDev component of the Shropshire Local Plan, it is advised

that a Heritage Assessment is submitted as part of any planning application. This should comprise an archaeological desk based assessment and, if advised by Clwyd-Powys Archaeological Trust with respect to the main part of the proposed development site, a field evaluation. It should also include an assessment of the impacts the

proposed development would have on the settings of designated and non-designated heritage

assets, the selection of which should be informed by the Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) for the

proposed wind turbine. This should include preparation of photo-montages from agreed view

points for those assets where the impacts are likely to be greatest. The assessment of impacts on the settings of heritage assets should comply with the guidance contained in Historic England’s

‘Historic Environment Good Practice Advice in Planning Note 3: The Setting of Heritage Assets.

Subject to the results of the Heritage Assessment, it may be necessary to advise, in relation to Paragraph

141 of the NPPF and Policy MD13 of the Local Plan, that a programme of archaeological work be secured as a condition of any planning permission.

ES Volume 2 Chapter 11

ES Volume 3 Figure 10.8

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Consultee Question or Comment Received Reference of discussion

Mr Kelvin Hall, Technical Specialist

Planning Officer, Shropshire

County Council

cont...

The exact requirements of which would be determined by the final design of the scheme but an appropriate condition might be: - Suggested

Condition: No development approved by this permission shall commence until the applicant, or their agents or successors in title, has secured the implementation of a programme of archaeological

work in accordance with a written scheme of investigation (WSI). This written scheme shall be

approved in writing by the Planning Authority prior to the commencement of works. Reason: The site is known to hold archaeological interest.

Shropshire Council Public Protection team Shropshire Council’s Public Protection team have provided the following advice Information in relation to noise is required when an application for a wind turbine is submitted. A noise assessment will therefore be

required as part of any future application following ETSU guidance according to current good practice

at the time of submission. Any assessment submitted must take into consideration any other

wind turbines in situ or sites that have been granted planning permission in the area at the time of

the application being submitted. If micro siting is required distances should be specified in order that

this can be taken into account when calculating noise levels at nearest residential properties as a worst case example. It is not anticipated that Shropshire Council’s Public Protection will have any objection to the proposed development in

principal however we would recommend that the noise assessment information mentioned above is submitted up front with any future application.

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 11.266

ES Volume 2 Chapter 13

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 6.44

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PRE-APPLICATION CONSULTATION REPORT

Consultee Question or Comment Received Reference of discussion

Specialist ConsulteesCeri Litherland,

Welsh Assembly Government

(planning decisions branch)

(emails of 02/02/17)

Thank you for your email below. I would be grateful if you could confirm that this information as been

submitted to us for information only, as any subsequent planning application will be for Powys County Council to determine in the first instance.

For future reference please note that the Welsh Government Planning Directorate are unable to comment on planning applications that are

before local planning authorities, as applications may at some time come before the Welsh

Ministers if they are called-in, or on appeal etc.

Your email refers to Schedule 4 table, Item (l)(ii)(d) i.e. it is within a distance of 3 kilometres from the

perimeter of a scheduled monument and is 75 metres or more in height, or has an area of 1 hectare or more;

As a Scheduled Ancient Monument is involved, you should consult with Cadw, who are the Welsh Government’s historic environment

service. The person in Cadw that you should contact in the first instance is Helen May,

who I am copying in to this email.

-

Table PAC2

Welsh Government

Department for Economy and Infrastructure - Transport

14/02/17

The Welsh Government as the Highway Authority for the Trunk Road Network in Wales would offer the following comments:- As part of the planning application the Applicant must submit a Traffic

Management Plan TMP To demonstrate their ability to safely manage the transportation of the wind turbine component along the Welsh Trunk Road Network.

ES Volume 2 Appendix 8.2

Helen May, Cadw

(email of 02/02/17)

I can confirm that we have received this consultation. -

Cadw

21/02/17

Thank you for your letter dated 20 January 2017 inviting our comments on the proposed development as described above. An archaeological assessment has been prepared for this proposed development as part of an environmental impact assessment.

This assessment includes analysis as to the impact of the proposed development on the settings of the two scheduled monuments identified below.

ES Volume 2 Chapter 11

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Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park

Consultee Question or Comment Received Reference of discussion

Cadw

cont...

The assessment concludes that: The tip of the proposed wind turbine may be visible from scheduled

monument (DE136) Offa’s Dyke: Section from Footpath S of Pen-y-Bryn to Orseddwen. This section

of Offa’s Dyke is considered to be of very high value and as the blade will be possibly seen in an

identified significant view it will have a minor impact and therefore the overall impact would be moderate.

Scheduled monument (DE292) Orseddwen cairn is located some 2.4km northeast of the proposed wind turbine. The tip of the proposed wind farm

may be visible. The potential visual impact has been assessed as minor and the overall impact would

be moderate. We concur with these assessments and therefore have no objection to the proposed

development. However, the proposed development may have an impact on other designated monuments

and we therefore suggest you consult Clwyd-Powys Archaeological Trust on this issue.

ES Volume 2 Chapter 11

Table PAC2

Natural Resources Wales

20/02/17

Thank you for referring the above consultation received by us on 24th January 2017. We previously responded to this case on 3rd February 2016 Ref: CAS-14474-K2N8 for EIA Screening and 22nd April

2016 CAS-17207-H6X0 for a Scoping Opinion.

Please note that our comments are without prejudice to any comments we may wish to make when

consulted on any subsequent planning applications or permit (either at pre-application or application stage)

for the proposed development. At that time there may be new information available which we will need

to take into account in making a formal response.

Based on the information submitted to us, we would recommend to the local authority that they should only grant planning permission if the conditions

listed below are attached to the planning permission. These would address the significant concerns identified and therefore we would not object.

-

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PRE-APPLICATION CONSULTATION REPORT

Consultee Question or Comment Received Reference of discussion

Natural Resources Wales

cont...

Summary of Conditions Condition 1 – To address potential pollution issues before commencement,

the applicant will submit a CEMP to the satisfaction of the LPA, in consultation with NRW. Hydrology and Hydrogeology We have reviewed EIA Vol 2

Chapter 9 Hydrology and Hydrogeology and agree with the findings and conclusions. The proposal is

0.5km away from Water Framework Directive (WFD) waterbodies; River Cynllaith (GB109054055060)

and River Morda (GB109054055070). The proposal could have potential risks to waterbodies from diffuse pollution during the construction phase of development. There is also a possibility for

private groundwater abstractions including springs, boreholes, wells to be located nearby.

In response to any subsequent planning application we are likely to advise that a condition is attached to agree a Construction Environmental

Management Plan (CEMP) prior to commencement, to address any potential pollution issues that could arise during the construction phase.

The CEMP should clarify pollution prevention procedures, the materials that are to be brought

to the site, procedures for managing construction waste and any hazardous materials.

Condition 1 – To address potential pollution issues before commencement, the applicant will submit a CEMP to the satisfaction of the LPA, in consultation with NRW. Guidance for Pollution

Prevention GPP5 “Works and maintenance in or near water” has recently been updated

(January2017) and will be found at http://www.netregs.org.uk/environmental-topics/pollution-

prevention-guidelines-ppgs-and-replacement-series/guidance-for-pollution-prevention-gpps-full-list/

Please note NRW’s 24 hour environmental incident number has changed and it is now Tel: 03000

653000 naturalresources.wales/reportit Flood Risk The site is not located in any B, C1 or C2 flood

risk zones as defined by the Development Advice Map (DAM) referred to in Technical Advice Note 15: Development and Flood Risk (TAN15) (July 2004).

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 7.83

ES Volume 2 Chapter 9

ES Volume 2 Chapter 7

ES Volume 2 Table 18.4

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Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park

Consultee Question or Comment Received Reference of discussion

Natural Resources Wales

cont...

The proposed development is located in a DAM A flood risk zone and due to its size

it required effective management.

The Lead Local Flood Authority (Powys County Council) are responsible for managing local flood risk, including from surface water, ground water and ordinary watercourses and

we note that they have been consulted.

Landscape NRW’s landscape planning remit relates to the potential effects of development

upon designated landscapes, including National Parks and Areas of Outstanding

Natural Beauty. Effects upon Registered Historic Landscapes are now considered by the Welsh

Archaeological Trusts. In this case, Clwyd Powys Archaeological Trust should be consulted.

We have reviewed EIA Vol2 Chapter 10 Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment. The AONB boundary at its nearest point lies 6.3km to the north-north east of the site, near Chirk - not 7.1km referred to in the

LVIA submitted with this Pre-application submission.

The LVIA sets out the landscape character baseline well and provides a useful narrative description. Representative viewpoint receptors at various

distances from the site have been assessed. No viewpoints from the AONB have been included within the assessment. The Figures and Zone of Theoretical

Visibility (ZTV) mapping are however helpful in our consideration the likely effects upon the AONB. The

LVIA has assessed effects and considers these would be significant upon landscape character within

approximately 2km of the proposed development, significant visual effects upon residential properties within approximately 3.5km to 4.0 km and significant visual effects upon walkers along Offa’s Dyke and

the Ceiriog Trail approximately 1.5km from the proposed development. We have not studied this section in detail and verified whether all available

viewpoints have been captured - as it relates to local landscape interests, however the spatial extent of

significant effects accords with our experience of wind turbines and solar arrays of the scale proposed.

ES Volume 2 Chapter 9

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 5.30

Table PAC2

ES Volume 2 Chapter 10

ES Volume 3 Figures

10.1 - 10.9

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Consultee Question or Comment Received Reference of discussion

Natural Resources Wales

cont...

With reference to the Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) mapping, we note that the AONB hilltops of Y Foel (marked by Bidulph Tower) and Vivod Mountain

lie within the ZTV of the proposed wind turbine. These receptors lie at 7.8km and 9.6km respectively from the site. We consider factors including viewing distance, landscape scale, simple landform components and

panoramic nature of views are likely to result in a single 101m high turbine having little visual presence

within landscape views from these locations. We therefore concur with the LVIA conclusions - that the proposed development would have no effect upon

the purpose of the AONB designation. The presence of two small operational wind turbines 27m to tip or smaller also does not cause us concern in regards

to cumulative landscape and visual effects upon the AONB. Protected Species We have reviewed EIA

Volume 2 of Chapter 12 Ecology and Ornithology and we consider that it is satisfactory for the purposes

of informing the planning decision making process. We note that the second edition of the bat guidelines have been used although there is now a third edition.

As previously advised, the turbine should be positioned so that the blade tips are a sufficient distance from hedgerows and trees adhering to relevant guidance TIN51 and TIN 59. In this case we concur that the habitat is low risk as stated in paragraph 12.57 of the draft Environmental

Statement. We consider that the proposal is not likely to be detrimental to the maintenance of

the favourable conservation status of any local populations of European protected species or UK fully protected species. Protected Sites Protected sites near the proposal are; the Berwyn Special Protection Area (SPA) the Berwyn Special Area of Conservation (SAC), Berwyn Site of Special

Scientific Interest (SSSI), the River Dee and Bala Lake SAC River Dee SSSI and Pandy Quarries SSSI. We consider that subject to appropriate

pollution prevention during the construction phase, as detailed above, the proposal would not lead

to likely significant effect on protected sites.

ES Volume 3 Figure 10.8

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 10.41

ES Volume 3 Figure 10.9

ES Volume 2 Chapter 12

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 12.40

ES Volume 2 Chapter 7

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Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park

Consultee Question or Comment Received Reference of discussion

Natural Resources Wales

cont...

Our comments above only relate specifically to matters that are included on our checklist “Natural

Resources Wales and Planning Consultations” (March 2015) which is published on our website:

(https://naturalresources.wales/planning-and-development/planning-and-development/?lang=en).

We have not considered potential effects on other matters and do not rule out the potential for the proposed development to affect other

interests, including environmental interests of local importance. The applicant should be advised

that, in addition to planning permission, it is their responsibility to ensure that they secure all other permits/consents relevant to their development.

-

Clwyd Powys Archaeological

Trust

(01/02/17)

The main problem with this application is clearly going to be the excessive height of the turbine in an open rural landscape where there are no other

vertical structures of similar scale. The visual impact will be significant and this is clear particularly for

heritage elements just across the border in Shropshire where a number of significant effects on the historic

landscape character out to 2km, combined with significant changes of view out to 4km, are noted in the ES. I would think this is likely to attract a refusal from Shropshire CC on landscape grounds and the turbine would have a higher chance of approval if it was significantly lower and less prominent in the landscape. A turbine height of 50m or less to blade

tip would be far more likely to succeed here.

A potentially major physical impact to non-designated archaeology has been identified for the combined

turbine and solar farm area in 11.248 and 11.249 and no assessment of this impact has been carried out so far. We would recommend that this is completed before the application is submitted so that the ES is fully informed with regard to any mitigation that

may arise as a result of the investigation. In this case we would advise that the whole application area is

covered by a geophysical survey using an appropriate magnetometry technique with readings taken on a 0.25m sample grid. The results of this would be

used to inform whether subsequent investigative trial trenching is required. The combined results would

then allow appropriate mitigation to be agreed.

ES Volume 2 Chapter 12

ES Volume 3 Figure 10.8

ES Volume 2 Chapter 11

ES Volume 2 Table 11.13

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 11.266

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PRE-APPLICATION CONSULTATION REPORT

Consultee Question or Comment Received Reference of discussion

Clwyd Powys Archaeological

Trust

cont...

There currently appear to be no significant direct or visual impacts in Powys to any designated

sites from either the turbine or the solar array, but Cadw should be consulted with regard to the fairly distant scheduled monuments that do fall within

the 10km search area so that their comments can be included. The contact in this case would be Mr Neil Maylan (Senior Historic Environment Planning

Officer) via [email protected]

I would be grateful if you could keep me informed with regard to the development of the scheme

and we would wish to be consulted on any further cultural heritage reports submitted to inform the ES.

ES Volume 2 Paragraphs

11.251, 11.2588

ES Volume 2 Tables 11.10,

11.11 and 11.12

Historic England No response during Jan/Feb 2017 pre-application consultation period.

-

Natural England

30/01/17

Natural England has no comments to make on this application.

The lack of comment from Natural England relates only to sites within England, and you should also

seek the views of Natural Resources Wales.

Natural England has not assessed this application for impacts on protected species. Natural England has published Standing Advice which you can use

to assess impacts on protected species or you may wish to consult your own ecology services for advice.

Natural England and the Forestry Commission have also published standing advice on ancient woodland and veteran trees which you can use

to assess any impacts on ancient woodland.

The lack of comment from Natural England does not imply that there are no impacts on the natural environment, but only that the application is not likely to result in significant impacts on statutory

designated nature conservation sites or landscapes.

It is for the local planning authority to determine whether or not this application is consistent

with national and local policies on the natural environment. Other bodies and individuals may

be able to provide information and advice on the environmental value of this site and the impacts of

the proposal to assist the decision making process.

-

ES Volume 2 Chapter 12

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Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park

Consultee Question or Comment Received Reference of discussion

Natural England

cont...

We advise LPAs to obtain specialist ecological or other environmental advice when determining

the environmental impacts of development.

We recommend referring to our SSSI Impact Risk Zones (available on Magic and as a downloadable dataset) prior to consultation with Natural England.

Further guidance on when to consult Natural England on planning and development proposals is available

on gov.uk at h+ps://www.gov.uk/guidance/local-planning-authorities-get-environmental-advice.

-

Defence Estates/ Ministry of

Defence (MoD)

No response during Jan/Feb 2017 pre-application consultation period.

-

Civil Aviation Authority (CAA)

No response during Jan/Feb 2017 pre-application consultation period.

-

National Air Traffic Services (NATS)

No response during Jan/Feb 2017 pre-application consultation period.

-

RSPB

20/02/17

Thank you for consulting the RSPB. We have the following comments to make. The application lacks

important contemporary bird data. The application site is within an area which supports breeding curlew. The curlew is Red listed in the 2015 Birds of Conservation Concern 4. It is Red listed in Wales owing to a severe a short-term and long-term decline of the breeding

population and is listed as a priority species in Section 7 of the Environment (Wales) Act 2016.

The occurrence of ground nesting birds including curlew (at and in the vicinity of the development site) which require open habitats would be compromised by this developments. Breeding curlew, in particular,

require wide open vistas to increase in numbers and reduce their susceptibility to predation. It is

important the Environmental Statement is supported by an up to date breeding bird survey. More detail

can be obtained as to these methods in “Bird Monitoring Methods : A Manual of Techniques for Key Species” Gilbert, G. Gibbons, DW and Evans, J. Pub. RSPB, BTO, WWT, JNCC, ITE Sandy 1998,

ISBN 1 901930 03 3. If you require further information in relation to this matter, please do not hesitate to contact me - and I would be grateful if you would keep me informed of any future developments.

ES Volume 2 Paragraphs

12.108, 12.113, 12.123.

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Consultee Question or Comment Received Reference of discussion

North Wales Wildlife Trust

No response during Jan/Feb 2017 pre-application consultation period.

-

Montgomeryshire Wildlife Trust

No response during Jan/Feb 2017 pre-application consultation period.

-

Severn Trent Water

No response during Jan/Feb 2017 pre-application consultation period.

-

Community Councils and Councillors

PAC46 Responses from Community Councils and Councillors are provided below in Table PAC3 with cross reference to the relevant section of the application where matters raised have been addressed in the Environmental Statement. The comments received are considered by topic from Paragraph PAC51.

Table PAC3 - Feedback from Community Councils and Councillors

Consultee and date received

Question or Comment Received Reference of discussion

Llansilin Community

Council

No response during Jan/Feb 2017 pre-application consultation period.

-

Carole Warner, Clerk, Oswestry

Rural parish Council

(email of 02/02/17)

At the Parish Council meeting held on Tuesday 31 January, your email advising of the pre-

application consultation was discussed. Although the Council had no specific comments to make

at this time it did request it is kept up to date on progress of the planning application.

Please could you confirm the Council will be added to your mailing list.

-

Cllr John Powell No response during Jan/Feb 2017 pre-application consultation period.

-

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Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park

Consultee and date received

Question or Comment Received Reference of discussion

Cllr David Lloyd MBE and Cllr Robert Macey

Gobowen, Selattyn and Weston Rhyn

Division

20/2/17

As the neighbouring Shropshire Councillors representing a community which would be

impacted by this development we have considered the pre application submission and

taken soundings from the local community.

Our initial response is one of concern in relation to a number of issues this development raises. The

visual impact of the panels, height of the associated wind turbine and potential impact on local wildlife are included within our concerns. The restricted size of the local road network also raises further concerns

around access and construction of the site.

We will await any full application with interest but feel the current plans raise a number

of troubling issues and this has been echoed to us by the local community.

ES Volume 2 Chapter 10

ES Volume 2 Chapter 12

ES Volume 2 Chapter 8

Cllr Aled Davies

(email of 24/01/17)

Thanks for the update, I live in the 3km circle so I received your letter yesterday.

Did you send this email to all Cllrs across Powys?

What does ‘Community’ in the projects name refer to?

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 5.29

Paragraph PAC41

Paragraph PAC28

ES Volume 2 paragraph 1. 1.20

ES Volume 2 Chapter 17

Cllr Aled Davies

(postcard received 30/1/17

Thanks, look forward to seeing more detail.

I’d like to know your thoughts on the proposed new LDP Powys CC are producing.

ES Volume 2 Chapter 5

Planning Statement

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PRE-APPLICATION CONSULTATION REPORT

Residents

PAC47 57 responses to the consultation request were received from members of the public. These have been reported in full (but without names) below in Table PAC4 with cross reference to the relevant section of the application where matters raised have been addressed in the Environmental Statement.

PAC48 Table PAC4 contains 69 responses (i.e. more than 57), as some respondees provided multiple submissions (for example multiple emails or representation by email and letter). Analysis of the public responses received (as discussed from Paragraph PAC49 on page 77) counts each individual resident or business, rather than each piece of correspondence received. Issues raised by all correspondence (irrespective of whether it is a second or third representations from an individual) have been considered with the Environmental Statement and this Report.

Table PAC4 - Feedback from Public Consultation

Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

In principle I am in favour of this application and look forward to its success. I have difficulty visualising how the site will eventually look but feel that green energy

has so many benefits that we have to sacrifice a small amount of our local land to achieve it. We will get used to what it looks like and I would rather have this than a power station and definitely better than ugly pylons,

Visual appearance.

Technology

ES Volume 3 Visualisations

ES Volume 2 Chapter 6

I would like an answer please to the proposed development:

1. What is the total height of he wind generator including the blades?

2. What is the max. generation in MW?

3. Is there to be just one tower? Or is this the start of creeping towers please do not

say we have no plans for new towers!

4. I believe that on researching noise that this will affect us and others.

5. I have grave concerns about the effect on wildlife and the bat population.

On the above I wish to express my opposition the this plan.

I would point out I have no problems with the solar panels only the tower.

The proposal

Noise

Ecology (bats)

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 1.2

ES Volume 2 Chapter 13

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Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park

Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

I am the owner Pen-y-Dyffryn Hotel, in the village of Rhydycroesau, and will be significantly affected by this proposal. Before the community

can properly respond please let me have your answers to the following queries -

Please advise why Volume 1 (Non-technical Summary) is not shown linked from the website?

This is surely the most useful section to lay-people who are interested in the proposal. Please forward me a web link and put that link on the website as soon as possible.

Please send me visualisations of the view of the turbine I will have from my hotel frontage. Volume 2 says I will be able to see the rotors, but I need

more information before I determine my own particular and personal stance on the proposal.

Please advise why your consultations with Shropshire Council are so limited. The proposal almost abuts

the Shropshire border, and from a visual point of view Shropshire will be impacted every bit as much as Powys, perhaps more, due to higher

population densities in Shropshire. Residents of Wrexham Council will also be affected and should be properly consulted - to what extent where they consulted and what was the Council’s response?

Please confirm the nature of your assurance from Scottish Power that the existing 11KV power

line will not need upgrading to take the load from the energy park. Please email/mail me the

consultation response from Scottish Power.

Please show me on a plan the route of the new 11KV power line required to connect to the existing power line.

Can you provide your reassurance, or a commitment, that there are no plans to increase

the number of turbines at a future date?

Given the wide ranging visual impact of a 100 metre turbine on top of a hill in this unspoiled

countryside, was any consideration given to extending the solar array and thereby

avoiding the need for a wind turbine.

Consultation process

Individual views

Consultation process

Grid connection

The proposal

Site design

PAC Paragraph PAC17

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 10.138

ES Volume 2 Chapter 5

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 6.41

ES Volume 2 Chapter 6

ES Volume 2 Chapter 3

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Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

cont....

The solar array is likely to receive a more favourable reception from the community than

this very large wind turbine. If not, why not?

You state that the only evidence of Otters is 150metres south-east of the site, but the response from Natural resources Wales states that they are also in evidence

in Pen y Gwely reservoir, south west of the site. Please correct your draft statement accordingly.

I cannot find Figures 10.8 and 10.9. Maybe I am suffering a consequence of the very large nature of the draft submission, but please refer me to them.

What is the structure of the holding company behind this development? In particular, will the profits from

the energy park remain in the UK, or is there a parent company? Who is that, and are they a UK based company? This will also affect residents

perception of the community aspect of the proposal

Where are the turbines and solar panels manufactured?

The project is described as a ‘Community Energy Park. How do you propose the local community will be involved, or indeed benefit, from this proposal?

As a courtesy to the local community, please extend the consultation period by one month to March

20th. There is a lot to digest before any meaningful response can be made from the community, including

discussion at Parish Council meetings. I suspect cooperation from you on this point will only improve

public perceptions of your willingness to engage with the local community over this community energy park.

Ecology

-

Applicant of the proposal

-

Community benefit

Consultation process

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 12.103

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 1.17

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 1.20 and Paragraph

17.131

ES Volume 2 Chapter 5

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Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park

Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

I note with incredulity this proposed development. As a lifelong Oswestry resident and user of Oswestry

Racecourse and the surrounding area I cannot believe that such a disruptive development is being

considered for so little gain i.e. electricity for 554 houses as the application states. The fact that the proposed development comes within some tens of metres of the Shropshire border makes the lack of

information given to those residents living in England almost criminal. You would not be allowed to plant an 8 foot hedge at my property border but you can

erect a 300 foot plus monstrosity on the Welsh/English border. Instead of despoiling a beautiful area of

country for so little gain why not put your solar panels on the roofs of 554 Powys houses and save the

whole process of building a pylon infrastructure. The whole idea seems to me to reek of public subsidy for business first and the needs and wishes of locals last.

I am totally opposed to this pointless development and wish my objection to be given due consideration.

Energy generation

Consultation process

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 1.8

and Appendix 1

ES Volume 2 Chapter 5

I oppose this application 1) The infrastructure roads, from the A5 at Oswestry to site can not be justified without the construction of a further seven units on adjoining sites. 2) This area of outstanding beauty will be decimated along with tourism. This is a precursor of a larger

development which will contaminate ground water.

Access (route)

Landscape

Tourism

Hydrology

ES Volume 2 paragraph 8.29

ES Volume 2 Chapter 10

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 17.70

ES Volume 2 Chapter 9

I find it difficult to believe that a turbine of that size is even being considered in such an important

historical area. It will have a huge negative impact visually apart from the massive disruption during

its erection. I would think the solar panels will have little visual impact and will possibly be an asset. I,

therefore, am strongly objecting to the wind turbine and hope you will take my views into consideration.

Scale of proposal

Heritage

Visual impact

Construction

ES Volume 2 Chapter 6

ES Volume 2 Chapter 11

ES Volume 2 Paragraph

10.41 onwards

ES Volume 2 Chapter 7

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PRE-APPLICATION CONSULTATION REPORT

Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

I’m shocked and appalled of your intentions to destroy our beautiful landscape with a 300’ monstrosity. I will be objecting vociferously and engaging my local M.P.

Landscape ES Volume 2 Chapter 10

I am writing to object to the above energy park proposal having reviewed all details relating to the scheme. I consider the consultation process to be poor and haphazard and the scheme would make a limited contribution to renewable energy supply,

whilst having a negative impact on the environment of an unspoiled countryside. Inadequate information

has been given regarding connecting the energy park to the grid, a scheme of such proportion would lead to a proliferation of pylons to carry the power

supply, the size and route has not been disclosed but would inevitably have a further negative impact on

the landscape and environment. Substantial amounts of construction traffic travelling to the proposed

site on small lanes and residential properties and businesses would have a detrimental effect to all living

in the area. The area has attracted a lot of current local residents who located here due to its natural beauty. Visitors come from far afield to enjoy the

wildlife, walks and horse riding on the notable trails and bridleways, a project such as being proposed would be damaging not only to house owners but

wildlife habitats whilst desecrating local businesses that rely on tourism as a key source of income. I consider the scale of the proposed development to be inappropriately large and as has been the practice of many wind farm developments in the past, the addition of more turbines in the future

must be considered a possibility. The name of the proposal includes the term “Community” this is a misuse of the term and is inappropriate as I fail to see any community benefits, conversely I do see

strong justified objections to the proposal from the community. I trust my objections will be given suitable consideration so that a piece of unspoiled rural Wales

countryside may be preserved for the sake of the environment and the wildlife that thrives within it.

Consultation process

Energy generation

Grid connection

Landscape

Access (construction

traffic)

Public Rights of Way

Ecology

Tourism

Community benefit

ES Volume 2 Chapter 5

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 1.8

and Appendix 1

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 6.41

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 10.69

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 8.46

ES Volume 2 Chapters 4, 8, 10

ES Volume 2 Chapter 12

ES Volume 2 Paragraph

17.70 onwards

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 1.20 and Paragraph

17.131

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35

Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park

Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

I am writing to object to the above energy park proposal having reviewed the details relating to the scheme. The consultation process has been poor and haphazard; the scheme would make a limited

contribution to renewable energy supply, whilst having a negative impact on the environment of beautiful

countryside. Inadequate information has been given regarding connecting the energy park to the grid, a scheme this size will require the construction of pylons across the countryside, further despoiling it. The route for this has not been disclosed but

will have a negative impact on the landscape and environment. Substantial amounts of construction traffic travelling to the proposed site on small lanes would have a negative effect to all living in the area.

Altering the lanes to cope with additional heavy traffic would lead to further disruption and would change the landscape from its current rural outlook. The

area has attracted a lot of current local residents and visitors who come here for the natural beauty, wildlife,

walks and horse riding. There is a major bridleway that would be adjacent to the proposed energy park, and Offa’s Dyke for walkers is close by. This proposal would be damaging not only to house and business

owners but wildlife habitats, namely Skylarks and Curlews, both of which are suffering through loss of habitat. The name of the proposal includes the term “Community” this is a misuse of the term and

is inappropriate as there are no community benefits, conversely I do see strong justified objections to the proposal from the community. I hope my objections

will be given suitable consideration so that a piece of unspoiled rural Wales countryside may be preserved

for the sake of the environment, the wildlife that thrives within it and the many people who enjoy it.

Consultation process

Energy generation

Grid connection

Landscape

Access (construction

traffic)

Public Rights of Way

Ecology

Tourism

Community benefit

ES Volume 2 Chapter 5

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 1.8

and Appendix 1

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 6.41

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 10.69

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 8.46

ES Volume 2 Chapters 4, 8, 10

ES Volume 2 Chapter 12

ES Volume 2 Paragraph

17.70 onwards

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 1.20 and Paragraph

17.131

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PRE-APPLICATION CONSULTATION REPORT

Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

I am writing to object most strongly to the proposed development of the Cefn-y-Maes Energy Park

described in your letter and enclosures of 20 January 2017. My main objections are summarized below. The arrangements for consultation have so far been

completely unacceptable. The documents you recently sent out have not been distributed to many people in the surrounding communities or to many authorities, business organisations and residents in neighbouring areas which will be affected by

the project. No public meeting has been arranged to introduce the proposals. You seem to have no

rational explanation for failing to make available the requisite non-technical summary. Any non-technical person who manages to discover the very detailed

material on your website will find it user-unfriendly. No convincing case has been put forward to justify the amount of disruption to rural life and spoilage of the countryside proposed. The relatively small amount of electricity to be generated over the short 30-year

life of the project does not offset the negative effects that would be felt throughout the communities in a

wide surrounding area. The project has been falsely named the “Cefn-y-Maes Community Renewable

Energy Park” when, far from benefiting the community, it would be harmful to it. This project would be certain to have a detrimental effect on many leisure pursuits such as walking, cycling and horse-riding for which

the area is well-known. It would overshadow adjacent areas of archaeological interest containing standing stones, and would seriously impair the nearby Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Wrexham. Local residents and visitors from many parts of the UK and elsewhere would be badly affected. Local businesses providing services to the tourist and

leisure industries would suffer and there would be knock-on effects to the economy across a wide

area. Approval of this project might well encourage additional developments in the area, in which case

the negative effects would be compounded.

Consultation process

Energy generation

Community benefit

Public Rights of Way

Heritage

Landscape designations

Tourism

Proliferation

ES Volume 2 Chapter 5

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 1.8

and Appendix 1

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 1.20 and Paragraph

17.131

ES Volume 2 Chapters 4, 8, 10

ES Volume 2 Chapter 11

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 10.36

ES Volume 2 Paragraph

17.70 onwards

ES Volume 2 Chapter 6

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Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park

Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

cont...

Major additional problems would in any case arise from the current proposal: · Transport difficulties

would be encountered in Oswestry, in local villages, and on small country roads in the area completely

unsuitable for multiple heavy loads during the construction (and later demolition) periods; · Scaling-

up would be needed to transmission lines to link the site to the National Grid. This is a key element that has proved an Achilles heel to other energy

park proposals and needs to be taken into detailed account as an integral part of the package for initial

consultation. There is no sign of it at present. I hope you will keep me fully informed on how you intend to meet these and similar objections now being voiced by many in the local communities.

Access (route)

Grid connection

ES Volume 2 paragraph 8.29

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 6.41

We are writing to express our concerns about the proposed siting of the wind turbine at Cefn y Maes. We feel that the visual impact on our property (Tyn y drain) will be huge as the full height of the turbine

will be clearly visible from all points of our house and land. Kate Bowen, Planning Officer for Powys County Council has commented in her report that

‘it would be useful to recieve viewpoints from those properties where the entire turbine would be visible (Cefn Coch, Tyn y drain). We feel that the viewpoint

taken from north of Carreg y Big is partially obscured by Cefn Coch woods and is not a reflection of

what we would actually see from our house and land. We would therefore request that additional

viewpoints are provided from our land. Kate Bowen also points out that consideration should be given to the impact on tourism in the area ( chapter 17).

We currently have a pre application with Shropshire County Council to develop a Glamping Site at Tyn

y drain Quarry. The turbine will be in full view of the proposed development. This could seriously

affect the viability of our project as one of our main objectives is that guests can enjoy the beautiful

views from their accommodation. We are concerned about the noise levels from the turbine as the

prevailing South Westerly winds will carry the noise to our property and the proposed Glamping Site.

Individual views

Tourism

Noise

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 10.138

ES Volume 2 Paragraph

17.70 onwards

ES Volume 2 Chapter 13

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PRE-APPLICATION CONSULTATION REPORT

Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

cont...

Carwyn Jones, Senior Environmental Health Officer (Chapter 13) has requested that a noise survey with predicted noise levels for the nearest dwellings be

carried out. We would endorse this request and ask that we are present when this is carried out.

Claire Parry, Senior Development Planning Advisor for Natural Resources for Wales points out that

‘there may be diffused pollution issues during the construction phase’. We are concerned that polluted

water will run off from the site and will feed into water courses on our land which are used for animal

drinking and fish pools. We would like clarification of the ‘community’ aspect of this project and how it

will benefit the local community and those properties directly affected by the development. We would like our comments to be included within the application

documentation and we wish to be kept up to date on the progress of the planning application. We hope that our concerns will be take into consideration during the planning application. We would be

grateful if you could confirm receipt of our e mail.

Hydrology

Community benefit

ES Volume 2 Chapter 9

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 1.20 and Paragraph

17.131

I write in response to your recent invitation for comments on this proposed development. I believe that this is a very poorly conceived proposal whose

consultation process has been chaotic. I object strongly to the proposals and for the reasons I put forward below, I urge you to abandon them now. • PROCESS. The consultation process has been chaotic: The letter inviting comment was sent to

some households and not to others- how recipients were chosen is unclear, but I certainly didn’t receive one. There has been no public meeting to explain the project. The materials on your website are, as

of this morning, still missing the vital Volume 1 - the explanation for non-technical readers. Saying this will be provided when the Planning Application is made negates the utility of the consultation process. The

materials that are on the site are very voluminous. The late involvement of Shropshire authorities, residents

and businesses in the consultation process is unfortunate at least and I say this as a Powys resident.

Consultation process

ES Volume 2 Chapter 5

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Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park

Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

cont...

• PRINCIPLE. I do not understand the justification for allowing a proliferation of sites which contribute only marginally to renewable energy supply to desecrate unspoilt countryside. Permission for this site is likely to encourage further encroachment. • SPECIFICS. I think this is an extremely ill-thought-out proposal,

which I am surprised has been able to progress to the current stage because: The development is in an area

much used by walkers, cyclists and riders and this proposal will for sure change the nature of this area of unspoilt countryside. Several long-distance paths cross the area, some very close to the development

and I suspect that the impact on equestrian users will be particularly marked. It is this unspoilt countryside which is the attraction not only to local residents and people living in nearby communities but also for the

visitors to the area from further afield. We should be doing everything we can to support the local

businesses - large and small - who are engaged in the tourist industry in our locality on both sides of the border. Aside from the immediate local visual impact,

the scale of the wind turbine specifically means that the site will be visible from a very significant

distance on the approach to the area - much to its detriment. Without trawling the 500 pages of detail,

I can see no information about how SPN would connect the development to the grid and what this

would mean in terms of new pylon development. The Draft Design and Access Statement says this will be the subject of a further planning application -which seems perverse. It is one of the important issues and should be detailed now. There is no evidence of a “Community” dimension to this project, so its title is misleading. I am hugely concerned about the impact of construction traffic. There are two

issues here: • Increased HGV traffic on the 84580 between Oswestry and the site. This is already a very dangerous stretch of road: HGVs (and some agricultural vehicles) pose a major hazard already

on the Racecourse “hairpins” and the bends at Top Forest and Llawnt. Any increase in HGV traffic -even

for just for the construction period -has a direct impact on the safety of the many people who use this road.

Energy generation

Public Rights of Way

Tourism

Visual impact

Grid connection

Community benefit

Access (construction

traffic)

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 1.8, and Appendix 1

ES Volume 2 Chapters 4, 8, 10

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 17.70

ES Volume 2 Paragraph

10.41 onwards

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 6.41

ES Volume 2 Paragraphs 1.20

and 17.131

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 8.46

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40

PRE-APPLICATION CONSULTATION REPORT

Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

cont...

• Routing the exceptional load convoy!, via Llangedwyn and Llansilin along the Powys section of the 84580 is the stuff of nightmares. Even if this

route is technically feasible (surely not?), the impact on the village of Llansilin will be very significant - as it will be for all of us who frontage the road and its side-roads. I would also have concerns about the impact on the road itself-we already suffer from

many potholes the erosion of the tarmac edge and damaged verges and roadside walls. What will be the additional effect of these very large and heavy loads?

Access (route) ES Volume 2 Paragraph 8.29

I am writing to you to express my opposition to the above referenced development. The pre application

consultation document has only recently come to my attention as it appears to have only been

selectively targeted to a minority of households in the area and not to any of the many properties that

the development will severely affect. There has been no public consultation and the website documents

are very generic with volume 1 missing which is unfortunate as that is the one that most respondents

would need to read. Cefn y Maes energy park is described as being a community project however

it most certainly is not as the whole community and adjacent areas are against it hence your statements are misleading. The scheme is ill conceived, out of place , will severely affect the amenity of the whole area and not contribute to the area. The matter of

the export of power is brushed under the table even though the pylons will have a major impact on the

local areas of natural beauty and special areas such as the Old Racecourse. I am of the opinion

that it should be included in any deliberations. If the application should go ahead please be advised that it will be met with a most vigorous opposition campaign

similar to recent campaigns in adjacent valleys.

Consultation process

Community benefit

Site location

Grid connection

Landscape

ES Volume 2 Chapter 5

ES Volume 2 paragraph 1.20

and 17.131

ES Volume 2 Chapter 3

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 6.41

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 10.69

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41

Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park

Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

We are writing to express our community’s objection and deep concern about the impact on our

community of this proposed development in Powys, directly adjoining the Shropshire county boundary

and just 500 metres from the Wrexham County boundary. Membership of the local community

supporting this community objection is already high, and rising every day. Due to overwhelming and, we

believe, majority local objection, an action group has been formed, Community Against Rhydycroesau Turbine Energy Park (CARTE) and within the last few days our numbers have swelled to the point

where specialist professional services are now being sought. Your chosen site for this energy park is

deliberately and cynically exploiting the fact that, while the development is actually located in Powys, it is

right on the boundary of three County Councils. This allows you to constrain from Powys Council’s remit

the visual impact of the development on neighbouring counties, and to obfuscate on consequential impacts

such as pylon routes and road infrastructure, all of which are actually located in Shropshire. You have

also singularly failed to adequately consult Shropshire Council, not just in respect of the energy park, but in respect of the required pylon infrastructure (in

Shropshire} to connect to the national grid, and in respect of the highway issues to transport in the

construction materials, (again, in Shropshire). You have also failed to adequately consult the affected community, and to provide accessible summary information to the public about the proposal. We are concerned about several other aspects of the proposal. Paragraph references refer to your own

draft application. • The inappropriate scale of the development in this small scale and relatively populated landscape, in particular the very large wind turbine (102 metres, two·thirds the height of Blackpool Tower). This large turbine is grossly out of proportion to our small scale local landscape. Most of the hills in this area do not rise more than

50 metres from the surrounding land, which further emphasises the inappropriate scale of the turbine.

Site location

Consultation process

Grid connection

Access

Scale of proposal

ES Volume 2 Chapter 3

ES Volume 2 Chapter 5

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 6.41

ES Volume 2 Chapter 8

ES Volume 2 Chapter 6

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42

PRE-APPLICATION CONSULTATION REPORT

Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

cont..

The entire turbine will be visible from Oswestry Equestrian Centre and the turbine will be visible from Pen-y·Dyffryn Hotel in Rhydycroesau (Para 11.240),

both only about 2.0 km away. The turbine will also be visible from much of the Oswestry Uplands National

Character Area, a vast swathe of Powys and the Berwyn Foothills Landscape Character Area, Wrexham

County’s protected landscapes, from Oswestry town, and from much further afield. (Your Figure

10.8) • The proposal is at odds with many aspects of Powys Council’s UDP, the draft LDP, and prevailing policy determinations, in particular in relation to wind power. Proposals ... should not adversely affect the

landscape quality,” (the turbine is two-thirds the height of Blackpool tower on a prominent hill), -”should not

adversely affect the occupants of sensitive properties or buildings of conservation interest” (eg the Grade 2 listed hotel in Rhydycroesau entirely dependant

on tourism) and should not adversely affect the safe use of highways, especially bridleways, including

during the construction phase”. (eg the Ceiriog Long Distance Bridleway, just metres from the proposal) The proposal will generate an insignificant amount of local employment in its operational phase, and even in the construction phase we note that the

high-value components are all manufactured abroad. Conversely, the proposal will have a negative effect

on local and sustainable businesses, especially those in the tourism and leisure industries. • Your own Environmental Impact Assessment describes the significant impact on Offa’s Dyke 1900 metres away, (not 2.5km as you state in your application). You state that the visual amenity of walkers will be

“significantly affected” (para 10.141) and “the visual impact on this major earthwork will be severe” and

“it would diminish the significance of the asset” (11.218 et al). The proposal also directly skirts the Ceiriog Way, a long distance bridle-path, which will effectively curtail this National Trail for horse riders. Your own Environmental Impact Assessment itself

describe the impact on the trail as “severe.”

Visual impact

Landscape designations

Planning Policy

Employment

Tourism

Public Rights of Way

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 10.41

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 10.36

ES Volume 2 Chapter 2

and Planning Statement

ES Volume 2 Chapter 17

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 17.70

ES Volume 2 Chapters 4,

8 and 10

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Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park

Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

cont...

• Community proposals should also demonstrate community support. The Council’s stated policy is “to see far more of the benefits accruing from

renewable energy developments be recycled locally and to see that future developments are far better linked to community involvement”. There has been a total absence of community involvement in the

development of this project, other than the landowner concerned, and indeed you have developed the project in total secrecy from the local community. Now that you have finally had to go public, local

canvassing supports the view that this proposal is meeting with overwhelming community opposition and so will not meet this criterion. You are cynically misusing the term “community energy park” to spin this proposal as a “community initiative” and as a “park”. Email correspondence received from you by Miles Hunter at Pen-y-Dyffryn Hotel states that

the only beneficiaries of the development will be the shareholders of the company. Perhaps you are hoping to “buy” community support by allowing local people

to buy shares in your company. I assure you any such offer would be rejected by the majority of this community, when the cost will be such an adverse impact on the community and its environment. •

The consultation process has been chaotic and far from inclusive of everyone in the affected community.

For example, Oswestry Equestrian Centre, just 2000 metres from the development, and with an

unobstructed view of the turbine, did not even receive your consultation letter nor, so far as we can tell, did anyone on Oswestry Racecourse, on whom

you describe the impact as “Major” You have also deliberately chosen to exclude Volume 1 from the

public consultation website. This is the section you describe as the “non-technical summary document,”

most appropriate for fay readers. Therefore the local community are expected to read and digest over 600 pages of technical data in a very short

space of time to filter out what is relevant to them in the application, and its consequences for them.

Community benefit

Consultation process

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 1.20

and 17.131

ES Volume 2 Chapter 5

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44

PRE-APPLICATION CONSULTATION REPORT

Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

cont...

This is a deliberate attempt to dissemble and to conceal from the community the full impact of the proposal on our community, our countryside, and our infrastructure. Should you regretfully decide to proceed to a formal planning application we

suggest you start the consultation process again in a more accessible manner and to a wider area of the community, or we will challenge the application as a cynical exercise in the misrepresentation of the views

of the local community. The policies of Shropshire Council are not being given adequate weight in the consultation process. The development is right on

the Shropshire border and will impact on Shropshire every bit as much as it will Powys, arguably more,

as population densities are higher on the Shropshire side of the border than on the Powys side, and the development is on a south facing slope, facing into Shropshire. The proposal will also have serious and

adverse effects on several protected landscape designations in Shropshire immediately adjoining the energy park, and these are not being given adequate

consideration in your application. The Oswestry Uplands National Character Area immediately

alongside the development is described as being “of high overall landscape value” and a “small yet distinct landscape”, about which it stated objective

is to “protect and enhance the area’s distinctive and intricate historic landscape character, and to retain the area’s high tranquillity levels”. Your own draft Planning

Application states that the impact on this Oswestry Uplands NCA will be “very high or severe”. (Para

11.190 and 11/191), describes the local impact as “adverse” (Table 10.4) and says it “would result in a

significant adverse long term change in the character of the landscape” (Para 10.73). You also say that “it is expected that these significant effects will be considered to be adverse”. (Para 10.129) Tourism

and leisure industries are also judged by Shropshire Council to be of high importance in this area.

Planning Policy

Landscape

ES Volume 2 Chapter 2

and Planning Statement

ES Volume 2 Paragraph

10.69 onwards

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Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park

Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

cont...

Pen-y Dyffryn Hotel and the Oswestry Equestrian Centre rely entirely on this sector for their existence, as do many other local businesses in hospitality and

tourism. Furthermore, the Shropshire section of Offa’s Dyke runs only 1900 metres from the proposed

development, (incorrectly stated as 2.5 km in your application) and you state “the visual amenity of

walkers will be significantly affected” (para 10.141) and “the visual impact on this major earthwork will be severe” and “it would diminish the significance of the asset” (11.218 and onward). You also say

the effect on Offa’s Dyke where it crosses Oswestry Racecourse will be “major” (11.227). The Racecourse is an important and Jong-standing local recreational

destination. There are also several Shropshire bridleways and footpaths, some directly bordering

the proposal. We would seriously question whether an industrial development with this level of visual impact

will enhance tourism and leisure activities in North Shropshire. I Indeed we judge that the development and ancillary pylons will have a substantially negative

impact on local businesses, and tourism in the Oswestry area in general. • There will be an adverse effect on several protected species of local wildlife. Your application concedes that there are records of Otters and several bat species on and around the

site, both in Shropshire and Powys. Disturbance and damage to species and their environment is inevitable

during the construction and operational phases. • The views of Wrexham County Council residents and businesses, and Wrexham Council itself, are

not being given adequate weight in the consultation process. The Wrexham County boundary is just 500 metres from the proposed development and there appears to have been almost no consultation with

its residents and businesses or the county council. • The protected landscape designations in Wrexham County are not being given adequate weight, and

the proposal also fails to meet the stated objectives of the Wrexham Local Development Plan regarding landscape protection and community involvement.

Tourism

Cultural heritage

Ecology (otters and bats)

Planning Policy

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 17.70

ES Volume 2 Chapter 11

ES Volume 2 Chapter 12

ES Volume 2 Chapter 2

and Planning Statement

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PRE-APPLICATION CONSULTATION REPORT

Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

cont...

The Clwydian and Dee Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is just 6.3 km from the

proposed development, and the Wrexham Special Landscape Area is just 500 metres from the

proposed development. Wrexham County policy for this area (Berwyn Foothills Planning Guidance)

states that “Development which breaches the skyline and would be visible in local and long distance

views would be considered inappropriate. Ensure that any new development is integrated within the

landscape in main views, through appropriate siting below the skyline with appropriate form, colour and

materials” There is also a Biodiversity Protection Area approximately one kilometre from the proposal,

and The Llangollen and Eglwyseg Register of Historic Landscape is 7.4km from the proposal. This turbine will have a major impact on such

areas within Wrexham County, and your EIA does not adequately represent this impact as Wrexham County appears to have barely been consulted. •

Insufficient weight and detail has been given by you on the impact on the local road network of the very large vehicles required to transport the turbine to the site along narrow country lanes, through both Shropshire and Powys. Major traffic disruption is

inevitable, even conceded in your own application. (Para 8.68 and 8.69) We also seriously doubt that

you have adequately represented the road widening that will be required for the “exceptional loads” in

your application, and this should be revisited, along with consultations with affected landowners. • You have not identified the route or size of new pylons

required to connect this development to the national grid in Shropshire next to Rhydycroesau Village

Hall. Our investigations also suggest that the local existing llkv power line by the Village Hall will be

insufficient to carry the additional load, which means larger pylons will be required from Rhydycroesau

back over Oswestry Racecourse into the larger grid near Oswestry. Both pylon routes should form part

of separate planning applications to Shropshire Council, prior to applying for the energy park itself.

Landscape designations

Ecology designations

Access (route)

Grid connection

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 10.36

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 12.40

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 8.29

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 6.41

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Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park

Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

Cont...

Powys Council policies also reference the need to determine pylon routes in advance of applications

for the development itself. This development will lead to proliferation. There are several pending windfarm

proposals within a kilometre of this development, including Severn Trent’s pending multiple-turbine

wind-farm proposal at Pen-y-Gwely Reservoir. Powys County Council risks being put in an entirely reactive position to multiple planning applications in this area of Montgomeryshire, a position entirely in conflict with it’s own policies governing such matters. We trust you will acknowledge the strength of community objection

to this “community energy park” and reconsider the merits or otherwise of proceeding with this

specious and highly unpopular planning application.

Cumulative impact

ES Volume 2 Chapter 10

I am writing to express my profound objection to this proposed development in Powys, immediately adjoining the Shropshire border. I cannot tell you

how upset I am at the prospect of you blighting this unspoiled area of the Shropshire borders by imposing such a large and alien industrial wind-turbine on our beautiful countryside, scarring our community and landscape for decades to come. 1. Apart from the severe visual impact on the local community, the

height of this wind turbine means that Powys is by no means the most affected county. It will be visible from a very significant distance across this entire area of North Shropshire, Wrexham, and Montgomeryshire. Yet almost all your consultations refer only to Powys. Presumably you have sited this proposal right in the

north-east corner of Powys, not actually crossing the county boundary, to avoid difficult consultations

with other county councils. This looks like a very cynical and devious strategy on your part. 2. The

consultation process has been seemingly random and has not notified everyone in the local community.

Many of our near neighbours did not receive your consultation letter and I suspect many do not even know about the proposal, although they are rapidly

finding out and are then almost universally appalled.

Landscape and Visual impact

Scale of proposal

Consultation process

ES Volume 2 Chapter 10

ES Volume 2 Chapter 6

ES Volume 2 Chapter 5

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cont...

3. Your online application is missing the part meant for lay-readers (Volume 1), so we locals are expected to read and digest hundreds of pages of

technical information in a very short space of time to understand and respond to what you are proposing, and consequential issues like pylons and transport issues. 4. Surely a “community energy park” should involve the community from its inception. You have

kept this project completely secret until now, ie until you were obliged to publish the consultation

documents. And so far as I can see there is little or no benefit to the community, just a hugely divisive

proposal that will scar this landscape and community for years to come. 5. The proposal is at odds with

many aspects of Powys Council’s planning policies in relation to wind-power, in particular that this sort of “community” project should be generated by the community most affected, and should not adversely affect landscape quality. This proposal fails on both

counts. Powys Council also say wind-turbines should not adversely affect bridleways. The Ceiriog Long Distance Bridleway, which my daughter and her

friends ride regularly, is just metres from the proposal, and there is another bridleway connecting to the Ceiriog Trail immediately in front of the proposed

energy park on the south side. No-one will be able to ride these bridleways with a spinning rotor the height of a 30 storey building right next to them, and if they did I would be terrified of a horse shying and causing

injury to the riders. 6. The proposal will generate very little local employment, (the turbine and solar

panels seem to be manufactured abroad), especially when compared to the huge damage it will do to

leisure and tourism in the Oswestry Hills area. The Oswestry Hills is one of only a few upland hill areas

in North Shropshire and is the arguably the most scenic and visited area around Oswestry. 7. Oswestry Racecourse will be badly affected, on which you say

in your application it will have a “major impact”. This is probably Oswestry’s most long-standing and popular

countryside recreational area, and the residents of Oswestry who use the Racecourse do not even know

about your proposal to make their views known.

Community benefit

Planning policy

Public rights of way

Employment

Tourism

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 1.20

and 17.131

ES Volume 2 Chapter 2

and Planning Statement

ES Volume 2 Chapters 4,

8 and 10

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 17.5

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 17.70

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Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

cont...

They will wonder why Shropshire Council “allowed” such a thing to happen, until they discover it is

actually in the northern-most extremity of Powys, and Shropshire was effectively blighted. 8. The nearby

village of Selattyn in Shropshire two kilometres away has not been consulted at all, presumably because it is in Shropshire. I know from talking to the residents

of Selattyn that this is causing great offence and consternation. 9. Your own application says there

will be a the significant impact on Offa’s Dyke, which runs very nearby the proposal. It states that the visual

amenity of walkers will be “significantly affected and the visual impact on this major earthwork will

be severe”. Is this damage to our precious heritage the price of generating such a paltry amount of

electricity? 10. Shropshire Council have not been adequately consulted. The development is right on

the Shropshire border and the proposal will also have serious and adverse effects on several protected

landscape designations in Shropshire immediately adjoining the energy park. These are not being given adequate consideration in your application, perhaps because you have deliberately and cynically chosen

to avoid placing any of the actual energy park in Shropshire, even though the landowner on whose

land you are proposing the energy park actually lives in Shropshire. This again is planning blight, by one county council against another 11. The Oswestry Uplands National Character Area lies immediately

alongside the development. Your own draft Planning Application states that the impact on this Oswestry Uplands NCA will be “very high or severe” and says

it “would result in a significant adverse long term change in the character of the landscape”. Have you read your own submission, and the damage you will do? 12. There are many records of Otters

and assorted bat species on and around the site, as well as Curlews, Golden Plovers, Short-eared Owls,

Ravens, Ring Ouzel, Merlins, Peregrine Falcons, Red Kite and Hen Harriers. Disturbance and damage is inevitable when faced with such a huge construction

project, and probably even just its presence will deter or eliminate such shy and sensitive wildlife.

Consultation process

Cultural heritage

Landscape designations

Ecology

ES Volume 2 Chapter 5

ES Volume 2 Chapter 11

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 10.36

ES Volume 2 Chapter 12

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cont...

Curlews are know to have a reduction of breeding populations of up to 50% within one kilometre of wind-turbines, and have just been added to the

RSPB “Red List”, “the highest conservation priority, with species needing urgent action”. 13. The views of Wrexham County Council residents are not being

given adequate consideration in the consultation process. The Wrexham County boundary is just

500 metres from the proposed development and there appears to have been no consultation with its

residents, eg The entire Ceiriog Valley. The protected landscape designations in Wrexham County are

also not being given adequate weight, The Clwydian and Dee Valley AONB is just 6.0 km from the

proposal, and the Wrexham Special Landscape Area is just a few hundred metres from the proposed development. There is also a Biodiversity Protection Area approximately one kilometre from the proposal. This turbine will have a major impact on such areas within Wrexham County, and your consultation does not adequately represent this as Wrexham County

appears to have had no consultation. 14. Insufficient detail is available about the impact on the local road

network of the “exceptional vehicles” required to transport materials to the site, through Shropshire and

Powys. You say major traffic disruption is inevitable, but I doubt you have given us the full picture about the road widening that will be needed to transport

these huge components to the site, especially through Rhydycroesau. 15. You have not shown on a map the route or size of new pylons required to connect

this development to the national grid. I do not believe that the wooden poles by Rhydycroesau Village Hall will be sufficient to carry the additional load that you say they will, so new, larger pylons will be needed

from Rhydycroesau back over The Racecourse towards Oswestry. Pylon routes should be a separate

planning application to Shropshire Council, prior to applying for the energy park itself, or Shropshire Council will find itself in an untenable position when considering planning applications for pylon routes.

Landscape designations

Access

Grid connection

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 10.36

ES Volume 2 Chapter 8

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 6.41

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Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

cont...

16. There are several pending windfarm proposals within a kilometre of this development, including

Severn Trent’s pending wind-farm proposal at Pen-y-Gwely Reservoir. Powys County

Council risks being bombarded by multiple planning applications in this area, and that

does not represent good strategic planning.

Cumulative impact

ES Volume 2 Chapter 10

Our property is 1.47 km from the proposed development. We object to this proposal on a

number of points: * The word ‘Community’ in the title suggests that this is a community initiative with

significant community contact and involvement. This is not the case. * How can you have a proposal

for a Renewable Energy Park that does not detail how the energy generated will be delivered into the electricity supply network? The route and installation

of any above ground power lines that may be required, whether poles or pylons, could be a major

blight on the local community and vistas. * The ‘Visual Impact’ assessment seeks to balance off significant impacts, such as for Offa’s Dyke, with minimal impact for other sites. Impact on Offa’s Dyke, and each other site, should be respected

individually. * There are no recorded impacts, visual or otherwise, on Oswestry Old Racecourse, which is a local community resource in every sense of the word. * The Exceptional Load Route for site

access, understates the difficulties of the route. The road between The Green Inn at Llangedwyn and

Rhydycroesau is a narrow country lane over a hilly terrain with no central road markings. It mostly relies

upon passing points to support 2 way car traffic. Larger vehicles do not use this road unless they have to. Llansilin and Rhydycroesau Bridge are particularly challenging to negotiate. The proposed Nootboom Vehicle/Trailer will effectively stop all other traffic on

that road. Restricting transport to off-peak hours will not resolve that problem, particularly for farming and emergency traffic, but also for other business, retail and leisure access into and out of Oswestry.

Community benefit

Grid connection

Visual impact

Access (route)

ES Volume 2 Paragraphs 1.20

and 17.131

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 6.41

ES Volume 2 Paragraph

10.41 onwards

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 8.29

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cont...

* The Standard Construction Traffic Route, including HGV’s appears to be through the centre of Oswestry.

Given the narrow streets, short streets, and right angle turns, this is going to have a significant impact

on traffic through the town. * How are Shropshire Council not more directly involved in this assessment? Shropshire is only a few metres from the boundaries of the proposed park. Shropshire will be subjected

to major traffic challenges on the A5, the A483, and through Oswestry town itself. Shropshire will likely be the route for getting generated energy into the electricity supply network. Shropshire

Council manage the Old Oswestry Racecourse and both the routing of ‘normal site traffic’ through

the middle of the Racecourse, and the possible energy routing across, or by, the Racecourse may

compromise that community resource. Please note my comments, both for this consultation exercise

and for any follow up planning application.

As above -

We write in respect to your proposed development at Cefn-Y-Maes. Firstly we would like to state the

consultation process is flawed as the general public’s awareness of the proposed development in the

local area is minimal. We live opposite the proposed development & heard 3rd hand from local residents about the plans & the deadline for objections. The

proposed concept of the Energy Park has been poorly communicated within the local community & the

standard 500 required letters have not been circulated as they should. The web page is incomplete in

sections & hence uninformative to lay readers. The so called “Community” development is at best a “Commercial” Energy park whose conception & planning has been poorly communicated. We

strongly object to this development & would state the main reasons as follows 1) The unspoilt country side bordering the proposed site is on the one side “The Oswestry Uplands National Character Area” & on the other the Wales border foot hills these unique

areas are greatly valued by locals & visitors alike due to their immense beauty & rolling nature walks.

Consultation process

Community benefit

Landscape character

ES Volume 2 Chapter 5

ES Volume 2 Paragraphs 1.20

and 17.131

ES Volume 2 Paragraph

10.69 onwards

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Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

cont...

In fact within your own assessment, the projected effect on this area is considered to have a “very high or severe” adverse effect. 2) The historic integrity of

the area will be scared by the development with Offa’s Dyke running close by. This again is best summed

up by your own assessment “the visual impact on the major earthwork will be severe” The impact to local

tourism from these fist two points is very negative, we should be enhancing our natural assets in the area

not detracting from them. 3) The number of the solar panels is excessive & the screening to prevent visual

disparity to the natural backdrop is not explained with further screening deemed to be unnecessary.

This is not acceptable as many residential properties views would be directly on to the site. 4) The average

height of wind turbines in the area is around 25 meters & this one is larger than many of the local hills

themselves. The negative visual impact would be severe for 1000’s of Powys & Shropshire residence alike. 5) The transport implications are vast for this development which ever unsuitable route is used to access the proposed site , with small country lanes being cut up to facilitate 30ft long wagons.

Either route will cause dangerous levels of increased congestion & disruption through local market towns

which would have a negative effect on trade & quality of life for residence. The widening of the lanes

will also decimate wildlife with established historic hedgerows disappearing. 6) Proliferation of future

turbines is likely given past wind farm developments elsewhere & the unique landscape would be lost for future generations’ to enjoy, whilst deterring visitors

& harming normal rural business that are vital to local market town prosperity. We are surprised this proposal has reached this stage given its location & negative impact on the area & look forward to

hearing of your cessation of plans to develop further.

Cultural heritage

Tourism

Scale of proposal

Visual impact

Access (route)

Proliferation

Landscape

ES Volume 2 Chapter 11

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 17.70

ES Volume 2 Chapter 6

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 10.41

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 8.29

ES Volume 2 Chapter 10

I have spent my whole life living in this beautiful village Rhydycroesau. I was born and brought up

surrounded by countryside which has shaped my life.

- -

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cont...

My main hobby is horse-riding along with running and of course walking my dogs in this natural, unspoilt

and quiet area. I am appalled to hear the plans you have in place for this area which I call my home.

The sheer size of the turbine your plans include is, in my opinion, absurd. It is a monstrosity. This is far taller than any wind turbine I have ever seen in my

life. To hear that there are plans for this to be put just one mile from my house is deeply upsetting. Your company sets itself up itself to be in favour of idea of “looking after the world” with “green energy” but this could not be further from the truth. Your plans are so damaging to the currently green area I live

in, and to call it a “community energy park” implies the community supports you, which from talking to my neighbours I am sure they do not. Firstly there

is the setting up of this humungous (100 metre) turbine, which will cause huge disruption in my

lovely small village, with a huge amount of transport vehicles, heavy machinery and heavy traffic. I recently

witnessed parts of turbines coming from Chester down to Mid Wales and just the single parts of these

turbines dismantled are disturbingly enormous. I can’t even begin to imagine these coming through my country lanes which I so safely ride along, with

all the neighbours often stopping to wave and say a hello. The field in which the turbine is to be erected in is just a few metres from my favourite bridleway

taking me on the lovely moors where the North Wales/ England border is at its best. Next to a large forest, beside a reservoir with specular views of the

Shropshire plain and the Welsh hills on the other side. This turbine will have huge effects on this bridleway and footpath. I for one would not be able to take my horse up there ever again if there were a 100 metre

turbine just a few metres from it. Given the noise and the unnatural structure moving around I am sure my horse would not be safe to ride. I also have friends

that I meet on horseback up there from Selattyn who have not even been informed about this planning!

Scale of proposal

Community benefit

Access (construction

traffic)

Public rights of way

Consultation process

ES Volume 2 Chapter 6

ES Volume 2 Paragraphs 1.20

and 17.131

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 8.46

ES Volume 2 Chapters 4,

8 and 10

ES Volume 2 Chapter 5

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Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

cont...

Therefore they aren’t able to tell you their opinions as they had no information! The turbine is also in

such a position that it will be seen from so far away. Being on the first line of hills in Wales, just as the border starts, means it will be seen from far, far

away on the Shropshire plain. Apparently Shropshire has no knowledge of this turbine what so ever. This

seems somewhat unfair and perhaps quite cunning? They aren’t able to comment on something they do

not know is happening. I have also just recently committed to going into my family business, Pen-y-Dyffryn Hotel, which is in Rhydycroesau. The hotel

has awards from people like The Good Hotel Guide last year, who voted us as “British Hotel with the Best

Views” and “Best Walking Hotel”. That is the USP and mainstay of the business. My parents bought this hotel 28 years ago and have brought guests

to this lovely little spot from all around the world, of which 50 % return, time after time again. The hotel’s

main attraction is the lovely walking around here. Many people bring their dogs to this country hotel and they say what an unspoilt and undiscovered

little gem the Shropshire/North Wales border is. The guests we have coming day after day, year after year,

all tell me just how peaceful, beautiful and natural the area around the hotel is. And they visit Oswestry and spend their money in the local shops every day,

so it is good for everyone. There is no question that putting a 100 metre turbine up less than a mile

from my house and family run hotel would have detrimental effects on the hotel, and threaten the local employment it provides. I am sure our hotel guests would write to you and object if they knew what you are suggesting. I hope you will abandon these plans to ruin our countryside and our village.

Visual impact

Tourism

ES Volume 2 Paragraph

10.41 onwards

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 17.70

I strongly object to the proposed energy park near Cefn Canol. This will not only ruin the landscape

but will also undermine the habitat of the ‘red listed’ Curlew, not to mention all the associated health

issues associated with turbines and pylons, which will be detrimental to the people who live nearby.

Landscape

Ecology (Curlew)

Health

ES Volume 2 Chapter 10

ES Volume 2 Chapter 12

ES Volume 2 Chapters 13,

14 and 17

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Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

I object to the above proposal because: 1. The area is currently one of unspoiled beauty and silence. 2. It contains major recreational routes which would be spoiled both visually and aurally. 3. New power

transmission lines would impact an area much larger than the designated site. 4. Heavy construction

vehicles accessing the energy park and wind turbine would have a detrimental effect on the narrow country lanes not designed or suitable for HGV

traffic. 5. This park would open the way for further industrialisation of the rural countryside in this area.

Landscape

Public rights of way

Grid connection

Access (construction

traffic)

Proliferation

ES Volume 2 chapter 10

ES Volume 2 chapters 4, 8 and 10

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 6.41

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 8.46

ES Volume 2 Chapter 6

I am writing on behalf of Pen-y-Dyffryn Hotel, Rhydycroesau, to express our vigorous objections to this proposed development. Our concerns lie

not so much with the solar panels, but with the very large wind turbine, the biggest for many miles in any direction. Wind turbines elsewhere in this area are roughly 20 metres high, so this turbine is five times as big, stuck on top of a hill. This 102 metre turbine is two thirds the height of Blackpool Tower. We will be able to see the turbine from Pen-y-Dyffryn Hotel itself, (your para 11.240 refers) and from most of

the countryside surrounding the hotel, and I judge it will have a severely detrimental effect on our entirely tourism-based business and the local employment

we provide. I am also sending my objections to three County Councils, many Community Councils,

Shropshire’s tourism bodies, Oswestry’s and Shropshire business communities, the community

opposition campaign group(CARTE), and many other interested, and as yet not consulted, parties. I would

make the following comments -1. A “community” energy park should involve the community from its

inception. You have kept this project totally secret from the community until now, when you were presumably obliged to go public with the consultation documents.

And so far as we can see there is little or no benefit to the community, just a very unilateral proposal from you that will scar this landscape, community and local

businesses for years to come. 2. The consultation process has been random and incomplete and

has not notified everyone in the local community.

Scale of wind turbine

Individual views

Tourism

Community benefit

Consultation process

ES Volume 2 Chapter 6

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 10.138

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 17.70

ES Volume 2 Paragraphs 1.20

and 17.131

ES Volume 2 Chapter 5

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Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

cont...

Oswestry Equestrian Centre, just 2000 metres from the development, and with an unobscured view of the whole turbine, did not even receive your consultation

letter. Their business, which is introducing horse riders to this lovely area, will be devastated. Many of our

near neighbours also did not receive your consultation letter and I suspect many do not even know about the

proposal, although they are rapidly finding out and are getting ready to oppose you. 3. It is notable that you have deliberately omitted Volume 1 from your

application website, which is the summary document for lay-readers. So local residents are expected to read and digest over 600 pages of technical

information in a few short weeks to extract what is meaningful to them. This does not demonstrate good

local consultation practice for what you entitle a “Community” Energy Park. Indeed there is nothing in

your submission to indicate on what grounds at all this can be called a“community energy park”. According to an email we have subsequently received from you, the only beneficiaries of the development will be the shareholders of the development company. So this does not appear to be a community development

in any accepted meaning of the term. 4. Apart from the severe visual impact on the local community, our

business and the local employment we generate, the height of this wind turbine means that Powys is by no means the most affected county. The farm on

which you are siting this proposal is almost entirely in Shropshire, as is the farmer’s farmhouse. The turbine will be visible from a very significant distance across the entire area of North Shropshire, Wrexham, and Montgomeryshire. Yet almost all your consultations refer only to Powys. Presumably you have sited this

proposal right in the north-east corner of Powys, carefully not actually crossing any county boundary, to avoid “undesirable” consultations with other less favourably-disposed county councils. This looks like obfuscation and deviousness on your part to keep Shropshire and Wrexham Councils out of the loop,

especially regarding the pylons and transport issues, which mainly affect Shropshire rather than Powys.

Visual impact

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 10.41

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Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

cont...

5. The proposal will generate very little local employment, as the turbine and solar panels are to

be manufactured abroad, especially when compared to the huge damage it will do to leisure and tourism in the Oswestry Hills area. The Oswestry Hills is one of only a few upland hill areas in North Shropshire

and is the arguably the most scenic and visited area around Oswestry.6. The proposal is at odds with

many aspects of Powys Council’s planning policies in relation to wind-power, in particular that this sort of “community” project should be generated by the community most affected, and should not adversely affect landscape quality. This proposal fails on both

counts. Powys Council also say wind-turbines should not adversely affect bridleways. The Ceiriog Long

Distance Bridleway, which our customers walk and ride regularly, is just metres from the proposal, and there is another bridleway connecting to the Ceiriog

Trail immediately in front of the proposed energy park on the Shropshire side. No-one will be able to ride these bridleways with a spinning rotor the height of a 30 storey building right next to them, and if they did I would be worried about injury to the riders

on all but the most robust of horses. 7. Oswestry Racecourse will be badly affected, on which you

say in your application it will have a “major impact”. This is Oswestry’s most long-standing and popular countryside recreational area, and the residents of

Oswestry who use the Racecourse do not even know about your proposal to make their views known.

They will wonder why Shropshire Council “allowed” such a thing to happen, until they discover it is

actually in the northern-most extremity of Powys, and North Shropshire was effectively blighted.8. The nearby village of Selattyn in Shropshire, two kilometres away, has not been consulted at all,

presumably because it is in Shropshire. Neither has the Ceiriog Valley in Wrexham County. I know from talking to the residents that this is causing great

offence and consternation. 9. Your own application says there will be a the significant impact on Offa’s

Dyke, which runs very nearby the proposal.

Employment

Planning policy

Public rights of way

Landscape

Cultural heritage

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 17.5

ES Volume 2 Chapter 2

and Planning Statement

ES Volume 2 Chapters 4,

8 and 10

ES Volume 2 Chapter 10

ES Volume 2 Chapter 11

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Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

cont...

It states that the visual amenity of walkers will be “significantly affected and the visual impact on this major earthwork will be severe”. Is this damage to

our precious heritage the price of generating such a paltry amount of electricity?10. Shropshire Council

have not been adequately consulted. (I can only see a reference to their “Historic Environment Technician”, who seemed to be somewhat short on information). The development is right on the Shropshire border

(zero metres) and the proposal will also have serious and adverse effects on several protected

landscape designations in Shropshire immediately adjoining the energy park. These are not being given adequate consideration in your application, perhaps because you have deliberately and cynically chosen

to avoid placing any of the actual energy park in Shropshire, even though the landowner on whose

land you are proposing the energy park actually lives in Shropshire. This again is planning blight, by one county council against another11. The Oswestry

Uplands National Character Area lies immediately alongside the development. Your own draft Planning Application states that the impact on this Oswestry Uplands NCA will be “very high or severe” and says

it “would result in a significant adverse long term change in the character of the landscape”. Have you really comprehended your own submission, and the damage you will do?12. There are many records of Otters and assorted bat species on and around the

site, as well as Curlews, Golden Plovers, Short-eared Owls, Ravens, Ring Ouzel, Merlins, Peregrine Falcons, Red Kite and Hen Harriers. Disturbance and damage

is inevitable when faced with such a huge construction project, and probably even just its presence will deter or eliminate such shy and sensitive wildlife. Curlews

are know to have a reduction of breeding populations of up to 50% within one kilometre of wind-turbines,

and have just been recently added to the RSPB “Red List”, “the highest conservation priority, with species needing urgent action”.13. The views of Wrexham

County Council residents are not being given adequate consideration in the consultation process.

Consultation process

Landscape character

Ecology (Otter and birds)

ES Volume 2 Chapter 5

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 10.69

ES Volume 2 Chapter 12

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Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

cont...

The Wrexham County boundary is just 500 metres from the proposed development and there appears to have been no consultation with its residents, eg The entire Ceiriog Valley. The protected landscape

designations in Wrexham County are also not being given adequate weight, The Clwydian and Dee

Valley AONB is just 6.0 km from the proposal, and the Wrexham Special Landscape Area is just a few hundred metres from the proposed development.

There is also a Biodiversity Protection Area approximately one kilometre from the proposal.

This turbine will have a major impact on such areas within Wrexham County, and your consultation

does not adequately represent this, as Wrexham County appears to have had no consultation.14. Insufficient detail is available from you about the

impact on the local road network of the “exceptional vehicles” required to transport materials to the site,

through Shropshire and Powys. You say major traffic disruption is “inevitable”, but I doubt you have given

us the full picture about the road widening that will be needed to transport these huge components to the site, especially through Rhydycroesau, right at the

entrance to the hotel’s drive15. You have not shown on a map the route or size of new pylons required to connect this development to the national grid. I do not believe that the wooden poles at the entrance to the hotel drive will be sufficient to carry the additional

load that you say they will, so new, larger pylons will be needed from Rhydycroesau back over The

Racecourse towards Oswestry. Pylon routes should be a separate planning application to Shropshire

Council, prior to applying for the energy park itself, or Shropshire Council will find itself in an untenable position when considering retrospective planning

applications for pylon routes. 16. There are several pending windfarm proposals within a kilometre of

this development, including Severn Trent’s pending wind-farm proposal at Pen-y-Gwely Reservoir.

Powys County Council risks being bombarded by multiple indiscriminate planning applications in this area, and that does not represent good strategic

planning on the part of the planning authority.

Landscape designations

Ecology designations

Access (route)

Grid connection

Cumulative impact

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 10.36

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 12.40

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 8.29

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 6.41

ES Volume 2 chapter 10

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Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park

Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

cont...

I sincerely hope you will consider these points before moving forward with your plans. In

particular that you will consider the merits or otherwise of imposing this huge turbine on our

landscape and community without any evidence of community involvement since its conception.

- -

I would like to object to the proposed development; Cefn-y-Maes Community Energy Park Rhydycroesau

There has been no consultation, no environmental impact assessment and no local awareness

campaign has been undertaken. Please do feel free to contact me to discuss this further or our local MP, Owen Paterson copied on this email.

Consultation process

EIA

ES Volume 2 Chapter 5

Having just returned from holiday and not having received prior consultation from your Company, I am

unable to submit a written comment by post. The proposed site is in a beautiful unspoiled landscape of undulating hills visible from the Old Racecourse

and other neighbouring areas and admired by residents and visitors. The Old Racecourse area is being promoted to attract more tourists and

this industrial development would have a serious impact on the attractiveness of a completely rural

landscape. Should this proposal proceed to a formal application, I suggest that you cover the site with a

shiny black plastic sheet and erect a 101 meter high white tower surmounted with a speaker playing a

recording of a working turbine 24 hours a day for the consultation period, so that the public have a proper appreciation of the implications of this development.

Councillors, your representatives and the general public are very welcome to view the site from my garden to get a perspective of the proposal from this side of the valley. I trust that you will forward these comments to the Powys Council Planning Department and any other appropriate authority.

Landscape

Tourism

Noise

ES Volume 2 Chapter 10

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 17.70

ES Volume 2 Chapter 13

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Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

Having just found out about your preposed 100 meter tall turbine in a site of historical interest,and a site that has many different species of raptors and

other wildfowl. also the are bee orchids,monkshood phlottileries,and other rare plants. so I must object to your ill considerd plan. this preposel will blight

a site of unusual natural interest and beauty.

Cultural heritage

Ecology and Ornithology

ES Volume 2 chapter 11

ES Volume 2 Chapter 12

In reply to a request for comments on the above proposed development. We object strongly for the reasons given herewith:- 1. Community - using this

word in the title is unwise given the fact the research has not been good. It is a unique and valued

group where the population of both Rhydycroesau and District including the Old Racecourse, and

surrounding areas are the Community. Then why were there no letters and copy of the proposed

development sent out to the Shropshire side of the border with Wales? 2. Access - the roads around the site and area approaches are all “B” roads.

Narrow with mainly high banked ancient hedgerows carefully managed and with many environmentally

attractive features including rare abundance of primroses, violets, honeysuckle, briar roses and so on. When the traffic comes through, as in the plans,

some parts will be seriously damaged and can never be restored to their original status. 3. Onward Plans - there appears to be no planning for the distribution

of the electricity i.e. connection to whichever sub-station. This is totally unacceptable. 4. Tourism

- this is a scenic and ancient area and proudly has Offa’s Dyke Way, and several other Public Rights of Way & hiking routes throughout. Several other

areas in this part of Wales have large Wind Turbine developments already. We do not want this area to be polluted with any at all.5. Economics - the cost of erecting a wind turbine of 102 metres and 2,588 solar panels plus the relative infastructure is huge. Never mind the cost of removing it(apart from the

large concrete base !) in just 25 - 30 years time. But it is only going to provide electricity for 554 “normal” households or 57 .1 % in the Llansilin Council area.

The sums do not add up - how can it be cost effective ? In conclusion, this proposal is badly planned and

without proper research. It is not wanted here.

Community benefit

Access (route)

Grid connection

Tourism

Public rights of way

Economics

ES Volume 2 Paragraphs 1.20

and 17.131

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 8.29

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 6.41

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 17.70

ES Volume 2 Chapters 4,

8 and 10

ES Volume 2 Chapter 17

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Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park

Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

I am contacting you with regard to the proposed Energy Park development at Cefn-y-Maes. I strongly

object to these plans for several reasons:Firstly, I notice that there is no mention of how the proposed Energy Park will be connected to the grid - WHERE would the new pylons be situated? This should be

submitted as part of the planning application and is a major concern for every resident and visitor that I

have spoken to. I can guarantee that nobody wants to see a row of hideous pylons here. The position of the proposed wind turbine and solar park is facing

the Old Racecourse in Shropshire and Offa’s Dyke. I believe this will have a huge negative visual impact along this section of such an important historic site.Besides this, the position of the site AND the height of the proposed turbine will mean that it would be highly visible not only to ourselves here in Powys,

but also to our bordering communities in Shropshire and Clwyd.Indeed, the height of the proposed wind turbine is ridiculous when put in the context of the relatively small-scale landscape it would sit in - I

believe no other turbines within a very wide area of here exceed 20mtrs in height, in comparison with this

at 102mtrs! This is an incredibly popular area with walkers, cyclists and horse riders alike. At least two nearby riding stables regularly use the bridleways adjacent to and surrounding the proposed site. This development would certainly have negative

consequences on their businesses. The disruption to these rights of way is totally unacceptable in an area

that attracts such visitors BECAUSE of it’s pristine and unspoilt landscape. I am also incredibly concerned about the proposed routes for construction traffic and the turbine itself. Both routes to the site (from

Oswestry and/or Llansilin) are very difficult, narrow, winding roads - not even wide enough for two full

lanes in parts. Both routes have very narrow bridges on bad bends... Both bridges are VERY old and one at least I believe is Listed. Damage to or alteration

of these are out of the question. Add to this the regular farm traffic, school buses, public transport,

refuse collections, school run, horses, cyclists, motorcyclists and people commuting to work from all directions, and you have a potential nightmare.

Grid connection

Site location

Visual impact

Scale of development

Public rights of way

Access (route)

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 6.41

ES Volume 2 Chapter 3

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 10.41

ES Volume 2 chapter 6

ES Volume 2 Chapters 4,

8 and 10

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 8.29

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Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

cont...

On top of this, the roads are already susceptible to subsidence in places and not in a great state of

repair - they certainly cannot take any more damage from heavy and increased traffic for an ‘Energy

Park’. I am also very disappointed (although perhaps not surprised) at the complete lack of Community Consultation. An apparently random selection of

households received letters regarding the proposals, while others did not. Strange don’t you think... There have been no public meetings to explain your proposals to our community. Also, Volume

1 - the section on the Developer’s website which is written in non-technical/layman’s terminology - was conveniently missing. This basically meant that we have had to plough through volumes of technical

jargon and waffle in order to attempt to pick out the important bits and understand your proposals. This is unacceptable. I would also like to point out that there are a variety of rare plants and animals recorded in the proposed area itself and along the access route

to the site. Otters are recorded in the immediate area and are fully protected under Schedule 5 of the

Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and are a European Protected Species. The proposed development would undoubtedly disturb these mammals and therefore will require a survey to be carried out

by a suitably qualified independent ecologist. In conclusion; I object to the proposed development of a wind turbine and solar park at Cefn-y-Maes for the above reasons. Whilst I am very much in favour of renewables (a Good Energy customer myself) I fail to see the benefits of developing an ‘Energy Park’ at this site. The many and varied negative impacts of such a development, to the local environment,

community, businesses, traffic and tourism (to mention a few) simply outweigh it’s benefits. I

sincerely hope you decide not to proceed with this totally inappropriate and unacceptable development.

Consultation process

Ecology (otters)

Tourism

ES Volume 2 Chapter 5

ES Volume 2 Chapter 12

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 17.70

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Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park

Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

I am writing in relation to the above proposed development in Powys and to express my concern about the impact it may have on our community.

The issues I have identified are: • The proposed wind turbine is far larger than others in the area,

thus increasing its visual impact and making it vastly out of proportion in relation to our small-scale local landscape.• There will be a huge impact on local residents as a result of the significant increase in

heavy goods traffic in terms of noise and disruption along the narrow country lanes of the area, access

routes that are wholly inappropriate for such vehicles. • The proximity of the development to the Ceiriog Way and Offa’s Dyke will significantly affect horse

riders and walkers from the local area and those that travel from further afield to enjoy these invaluable natural assets. Clearly this would have an impact

on the economy of the local area. • There is a complete misuse of the term “Community Energy Park”. This has been evidenced even at this early

stage by the omission of Volume 1 (summary document) from the company’s website and the lack of consultation in the affected communities.

Indeed, it appears that the only beneficiaries of this scheme will be the shareholders of the development

company. • Lastly, this development has the potential to lead to proliferation, further damaging

the unspoilt beauty of the local landscape.

Scale of proposal

Visual impact

Access (construction

traffic)

Public rights of way

Community benefit

Proliferation

ES Volume 2 chapter 6

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 10.41

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 8.46

ES Volume 2 Chapters 4,

8 and 10

ES Volume 2 Paragraphs 1.20

and 17.131

ES Volume 2 Chapter 6

With regard to your proposals for the above development, I would like to make the following

comments to be included in your planning application. I am a strong supporter of renewable energy and would like the government and renewable energy companies to put more resources in developing this rather than environmentally damaging and

potentially toxic alternatives such as fracking for gas, coal extraction and nuclear power. I believe that a mix of large scale developments, for example off-

shore wind, and small scale initiatives, for example, photovoltaic panels on domestic and commercial premises and small-scale hydro schemes could

combine to meet most of our energy needs.

Technology ES Volume 2 Chapter 2

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Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

cont...

However, as shown in schemes operating on the Scottish mainland and islands, renewable

energy schemes work best when part of a genuine community initiative and where there are tangible benefits for the community. These typically take the form of cheap electricity for the community

and money from selling surplus generation being ploughed back into the community. Your proposal

is called ‘Cefn Y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park’ and yet, to my knowledge, the local community has not been involved in developing

these proposals and I can find no reference to any benefit for the local community in your submission

apart from, ‘Opportunity for local people to invest in a renewable energy project’; not a community benefit by most people’s standards. On this basis, I strongly object to your planning application as a community

initiative.I also feel that your proposal does not take into the account the visual impact on the local

environment. I understand that you wish to maximise energy generation but this should be tempered by a sensitivity to the impact on the topography of the

area. In this respect, the size of the wind turbine would look out of all proportion to the rolling, hilly area and the number of photovoltaic panels too

large to be mitigated by the planting of hedgerows. This project would be far more suitable and less

dominant in a large, upland, moorland area but not in an environment such as here which is characterised

by a series of small hills and valleys. Finally, I am concerned at the noise that may be emitted from the turbine in certain weather conditions to those of us who live close by in Cefn Canol. I may have missed reference to this in the many pages of this proposal but I would like confirmation that nearby residents would not be affected by noise from the turbine. To summarise, I object to the planning proposal for the

following reasons: 1) There are no benefits to the local community from this proposal, the local community

has not been involved in developing these proposals and there are no plans to do so in this submission.

Community benefit

Visual impact

Scale of development

Noise

ES Volume 2 Paragraphs 1.20

and 17.131

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 10.41

ES Volume 2 Chapter 6

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 13

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Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park

Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

cont...

2) The scale of the proposed scheme is out of proportion to the topography of the local area and would look unsightly. 3) I am concerned about the possibility of noise emanating from the turbine in

certain weather conditions that may affect the health and comfort of people in the immediate area.

- -

This is a protest at the lack of information about a proposed energy site a couple of hundred yards from

our house in Cefn Canol on the Welsh border. My wife and I have only just heard from a neighbour that

this is intended. Please give us more information.

Consultation process

ES Volume 2 Chapter 5

I write in response to your recent invitation for comments on this proposed development. I object strongly to the proposal of industrialising a beautiful natural landscape to reward the pockets of the few,

on the pretext of helping the many. Seven percent of the worlds carbon dioxide emissions are generated

from the production of OP cement, of which you will use hundreds of tons on a single 101 m high

generator. I do not understand the justification for allowing a proliferation of sites which contribute only marginally to renewable energy supply to desecrate

unspoilt countryside. Permission for this site is likely to encourage further encroachment. Wind Turbines are definitely not green and litter the landscape, together with the pylons which will undoubtedly accompany them. The plight of ground nesting birds is already

of great importance and this project is bound to make the problem worse. People, both residents and visitors will lose the peace and unspoilt views of this area as well as local businesses suffering. The impact of transportation of these structures

through our local roads and the possible disruption of alterations to the existing by-ways is unthinkable.

I strongly urge you to reconsider this project.

Landscape

Proliferation

Grid connection

Ecology and ornithology

Access (construction

traffic)

ES Volume 2 Chapter 10

ES Volume 2 Chapter 6

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 6.41

ES Volume 2 Chapter 12

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 8.46

We are writing to object to the proposal and express our deep concern about the impact on our business of this substantial proposed development in Powys, directly adjoining the Shropshire country boundary, and just 2000 metres from our business, Oswestry

Equestrian Centre and Carreg-y-Big B&B. There has been no letter inviting comments at our business.

Economics

Consultation process

ES Volume 2 Chapter 17

ES Volume 2 Chapter 5

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Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

cont...

This is most concerning when this is the closest business to the development and will have a full and unobstructed view of the turbine. It will also

leave us exposed to other undesirable effects of the noise pollution and the subsequent impact on the

horses’ behaviour, affecting our business directly. The development is in an area much used by walkers,

cyclist and riders. Several long-distance paths cross the area, some very close to the development and the impact on equestrian users will be particularly marked. It is this unspoilt countryside which is the

attraction not only to local residents and people living in the nearby communities, but also for the visitors

from the area from further afield, including overseas, and will irreparably damage our livelihood as it

severely impacts in the business’ unique sale points (closeness to Offa’s Dyke, availability of equestrian trails and beauty of the unspoilt countryside). We

look forward to receiving your response addressing the above points in particular survival of our

business which has been put in an unsustainable position due to this proposal, damaging not only our family’s livelihood and future but also the right of many to enjoy our unspoilt countryside by the community, the country and overseas visitors.

Visual impact

Noise

Public rights of way

Tourism

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 10.41

ES Volume 2 Chapter 13

ES Volume 2 Chapters 4,

8 and 10

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 17.70

I am writing to object to the proposal and express our deep concern about the impact on our business of this substantial proposed development in Powys, directly adjoining the Shropshire country boundary. I

have received no letter inviting comments at Carreg-y-Big, my property where my family and I live and where

Oswestry Equestrian Centre is based. This is most concerning when this is the closest business to the development (2,000 metres from the proposal and

will have a full and unobstructed view of the turbine. It will also leave us exposed to other undesirable effects of the noise pollution and the subsequent impact on the horses’ behaviour and therefore on my business. The development is in an area much used by walkers, cyclist and riders. Several long-distance paths cross

the area, some very close to the development and the impact on equestrian users will be particularly marked.

Economics

Consultation process

Visual impact

Noise

ES Volume 2 Chapter 17

ES Volume 2 Chapter 5

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 10.41

ES Volume 2 Chapter 13

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Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park

Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

cont...

It is this unspoilt countryside which is the attraction not only to local residents and people living in the nearby communities, but also for the visitors from the area from further afield, including overseas, and will irreparably damage our livelihood as it

severely impacts in the business’ unique sale points (closeness to Offa’s Dyke, availability of equestrian

trails and beauty of the unspoilt countryside). I look forward to receiving your response addressing

the above points in particular survival of my business which has been put in an unsustainable position due to this proposal, damaging not only our family’s livelihood and future but also the right of many to enjoy our unspoilt countryside by the community, the country and overseas visitors.

Public rights of way

Tourism

ES Volume 2 Chapters 4,

8 and 10

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 17.70

As you can see from our address we live within the community which will be directly affected by this proposed development. We have set below a summary of our concerns and objections to the scheme: • The developers are deliberately mis-using the terminology “community development” as many local residents and businesses have not

even received the basic consultation letter and the “Community Energy Park” does not appear to

benefit anybody except the developers. In addition, there has been no prior consultation with the local

community about the requirement or benefits of such a scheme. • If the project were to be

successful, the development would undoubtedly lead to proliferation and further degradation of the local environment. • It appears that the alterations to the local transport network would be significant, and detrimental, to all inhabitants and visitors to

the area. Any work on the road network to enable the transport of the infrastructure would completely

destroy the character and charm of the area, let alone the safety of the local traffic. • The developers have not identified the route or magnitude of the power tine and pylon network that would be required to

connect such a development to the National Grid.

Community benefit

Proliferation

Access (route)

Grid connection

ES Volume 2 Paragraphs 1.20

and 17.131

ES Volume 2 Chapter 6

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 8.29

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 6.41

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PRE-APPLICATION CONSULTATION REPORT

Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

cont...

• The developers have only consulted directly with a minute number of local residents in this area of

Powys and as the proposed development is situated adjacent to the Shropshire border and very close to the Wrexham Borough Council and Denbighshire

borders, there is a significant population that would be directly affected who currently know n0thing about this proposed scheme. • The scale of the

turbine is completely out of keeping with the scale of the landscape There is large scale opposition

both locally and further afield and we will be liaising with our neighbours from Shropshire, Wrexham Borough Council and Denbighshire who would

all be affected by the proposal and who have, as yet and to my knowledge, not been consulted.

Consultation process

Scale of proposal

ES Volume 2 Chapter 5

ES Volume 2 Chapter 6

As you can see from our address I live about 1.5 kilometres from the site and our community will be

directly affected by this proposed development. The site proposed for development is rural and unspoilt

and full of wildlife. In the spring and summer the curlew visit this area and can be seen circling around the upland moorlands, nesting and bringing up their

young. The solar panels are planned by ENGENA to cover 1.2 hectares with glass (that’s nearly three

acres!!) and a huge environment to wreck. The building of a 101 metre turbine would mean a man-

made structure almost two thirds the height of Blackpool Tower sticking up in the air and visible for miles around. My friends and I walk and cycle in the area and the idea of meeting huge vehicles on the local roads is terrifying. These vehicles will be huge and ENGENA will also destroy sections of hedge

bank and corners so that the vehicles can fit on the roadways. This is huge disruption to a rural area and surely the solar Park and turbine and best situated on

industrial sites. Has ENGENA contacted and of the businesses on the Oswestry Industrial Estate as there are several acres of roof space already on the various buildings there. There is also a good network of power cables and pylons close to the National Grid. Please

do not proceed with the application as I and my friends will say NO to the scheme time and time again.

Ecology and ornithology

Scale of development

Public rights of way

Access (route)

ES Volume 2 Chapter 12

ES Volume 2 Chapter 6

ES Volume 2 Chapters 4,

8 and 10

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 8.29

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Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

cont...

I am totally against this proposal. It can hardly be an altruistic proposal to benefit as few as 554 homes with intermittent electricity - the homes would not, of course, be “Powys homes” as the electricity will have to be transmitted by pylons, some in Powys some in Shropshire, to a distribution centre. The object must be purely for the financial gain of the Cefn-y-Maes Community Renewable Energy Park Ltd. Reg Power Management and Engena. There

is no benefit to the local community at all, financial or otherwise. On the contrary, local visitors, tourism

and local outdoor pursuits - walking and horse riding - will tend to be discouraged from staying

around this area because of the overwhelming size and location of the turbine and solar display. This site is in a particularly unspoilt area of border hill country. The turbine would have been adjacent to the Llwybr Ceiriog National Trail, and easily visible

from Britain’s National Trail, the ancient Offa’s Dyke heritage border wall. Visible from Shropshire - which would not I believe permit or condone a turbine of

such a height, and neighbouring on Wrexham which would not accept such a development. There has been little comprehensive consultation or meeting with residents in the area. Disturbance, rerouting

and damage to local roads, lanes and byways will be permanent, and the routing of the loads through

this country area will affect safety and the impact on the villages concerned will be considerable. To sum - it is in my opinion an ill-conceived and

useless proposal. The cost in material manufacture, the ‘carbon footprint’ of transport and erection may outweigh any ‘green benefit.’ Who will fund the cost of removal of all the material in thirty years when the existing companies may no longer be in existence? The site is likely to remain derelict unless a fund is deposited with a government department to cover the expected cost in thirty years - by which time the

cost of removal may well exceed the installation cost and the benefit of the electricity provided. I and my family have farmed her for over one hundred years.

Energy generation

Community benefit

Public rights of way

Cultural heritage

Consultation process

De-commissioning

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 1.8

and Appendix 1

ES Volume 2 Paragraphs 1.20

and 17.131

ES Volume 2 Chapters 4,

8 and 10

ES Volume 2 Chapter 11

ES Volume 2 Chapter 5

ES Volume 2 Chapter 7

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Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

cont...

I have visited here almost annually when it was my great uncle’s place and my father

and I farmed here from 1951. I now farm over a hundred acres - but being ninety years of

age - on a reduced scale! Although I calculate that I might have seen the tip of the rotor from my house, this is the least of my concerns. I trust you will take into serious consideration

the objections which I have noted above.

Individual views ES Volume 2 Paragraph 10.138

I am writing to object to the proposal and express our deep concern about the impact on our business of this substantial proposed development in Powys, directly adjoining the Shropshire country boundary. I have received no letter inviting comments at Carreg-

y-Big, my property where my family and I live and where Oswestry Equestrian Centre is based. This is

most concerning when this is the closest business to the development (2,000 metres from the proposal and

will have a full and unobstructed view of the turbine. It will also leave us exposed to other undesirable effects of the noise pollution and the subsequent impact on the horses’ behaviour and therefore on my business. The development is in an area much used by walkers, cyclist and riders. Several long-

distance paths cross the area, some very close to the development and the impact on equestrian users will be particularly marked. It is this unspoilt countryside which is the attraction not only to local residents and people living in the nearby communities, but also for the visitors from the area from further afield, including overseas, and will irreparably damage our livelihood

as it severely impacts in the business’ unique sale points (closeness to Offa’s Dyke, availability

of equestrian trails and beauty of the unspoilt countryside). I look forward to receiving your response

addressing the above points in particular survival of my business which has been put in an unsustainable

position due to this proposal, damaging not only our family’s livelihood and future but also the right of many to enjoy our unspoilt countryside by the community, the country and overseas visitors.

Consultation process

Individual views

Noise

Public rights of way

Tourism

Economics

ES Volume 2 Chapter 5

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 1.138

ES Volume 2 Chapter 13

ES Volume 2 Chapters 4,

8 and 10

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 17.70

ES Volume 2 Chapter 17

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Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park

Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

I am writing to you to express my opposition to the above-referenced development. My objection is on

at least three counts: Even though the proposed development concerns renewable energy, it would

appear to be out of context in this situation and does not properly take account of the massive costs, given the relatively small and limited supposed

benefits to the community. 2. The local community consultation process is severely flawed. Even though

my abode is approximately 3km distance and is in a direct line of sight of the proposed development,

the pre-application consultation document has only recently and indirectly been brought to my

attention. It therefore cannot be stated, as it is within Chapter 5: Environmental Impact Assessment,

paragraph 5.24, that “In advance of submission, pre application consultation was undertaken within

the local community. Residents and businesses surrounding the proposed development have been consulted upon the plans of the Cefn-y-

Maes Renewable Energy Project.”3. Insufficient research has been undertaken and reported upon concerning the possible detrimental effect on the

wildlife community in this local environment.

Community benefits

Consultation process

Ecology and ornithology

ES Volume 2 Paragraphs 1.20

and 17.131

ES Volume 2 Chapter 5

ES Volume 2 Chapter 12

I am writing to you on behalf of the Oswestry Racecourse Management Association (ORMA) to express our opposition to the above referenced development. The Racecourse users would be

disturbed by the visual impact of the development, and if the export power lines and pylons were to

cross The Racecourse they would contravene the core strategy of the area. Furthermore the possible road widening to facilitate the construction phase would severely disrupt the area. Even though our public leisure, conservation and heritage site is approximately 3km distance and is in a direct line of sight of the proposed development, the

pre-application consultation document has only recently come to our attention; surprisingly, it would appear to have only been selectively targeted to a minority of households in the area and not to any

of the many properties and activity establishments that the development would severely affect.

Visual impact

Grid connection

Access (route)

Consultation process

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 10.41

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 6.41

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 8.29

ES Volume 2 Chapter 5

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Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

cont...

In fact, there has been no real public consultation; moreover, the website documents are very generic

and volume 1 is missing, which is unfortunate as that is the one that most respondents would

need to read. In addition, the matter of the export of power has been ‘brushed under the table’ even though the pylons would have a major

impact on the local areas of natural beauty and special areas such as The Old Racecourse.

as above -

We object to the proposal. 1) Not community project. 2)Disruptive to wildlife, and access. 3)

Visually will impair the landscape. 4) Not just energy park but pylons will be needed. 5) Detrimental to

riders, walkers, cyclists & visitors to the area.

Community benefit

Ecology and ornithology

Landscape and visual

Grid connection

Public rights of way

ES Volume 2 Paragraphs 1.20

and 17.131

ES Volume 2 Chapter 12

ES Volume 2 Chapter 10

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 6.41

ES Volume 2 Chapters 4,

8 and 10I don’t want to this industrialisation of our

beautiful Welsh landscape. Also the building and maintenance of this development would cause a major disruption to our community.

Landscape

Construction phase

ES Volume 2 Chapter 10

ES Volume 2 Chapter 7

We are thoroughly OPPOSED to the proposal. 1) Misleading project title as no benefit to community only disruption. 2) Destruction of rural landscape

and high value acidic and largely unimproved grassland favoured by Curlew and other species.

3) Major disruption to local transport infrastructure. 4) Powerline network not mentioned. Please

avoid submitting planning proposals. Significant local opposition in Powys, Shopshire.

Community benefit

Landscape

Ecology and ornithology

Access (route)

Grid connection

ES Volume 2 Paragraphs 1.20

and 17.131

ES Volume 2 Chapter 10

ES Volume 2 Chapter 12

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 8.29

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 6.41

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Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

This small power station in the middle of an area of outstanding natural beauty will serve no purpose

whatsoever in solving our nations sustainable energy needs. It will only serve to make the energy company

a lot of money in the next 30 years. The inclusion of the word ‘Community’ serves to show the rather naive position taken by the marketing team. How

many power stations of this size would Powys need to provide electricity for most of its residents.

Landscape designations

Energy generation

Community benefit

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 10.36

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 1.8

and Appendix 1

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 1.20

and 17.131

I strongly condem the proposal. The size of the turbine would be visible from Shropshire - whose cc

would not permit this size. No benefit whatsoever to the community - quite the reverse. Detrimental to visitor attractions being close the National Heritage trial “Offas Dyke’ and several bridal and foot paths in an unspoiled area of border hill and farmland.

Scale of proposal

Community benefit

Public rights of way

ES Volume 2 Chapter 6

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 1.20

and 17.131

ES Volume 2 Chapters 4,

8 and 10I am worried this will spoil a beautiful rural area. I

am concerned about the changes to infrastructure roads etc and the countryside routes

Landscape

Access (route)

ES Volume 2 Chapter 10

ES Volume 2 paragraph 8.29

Where is Volume 1? Consultation process

ES Volume 2 Chapter 5

No thank you!! Change the access route over Cefnymaes land?

Access (route) ES Volume 2 Paragraph 8.29

We object because this is an area of outstanding natural beauty. The excessive height will be visiable over a wide area. Will the turbine be removed when project is decommissioned or be an eyesore forever? How will energy

be fed into the national grid? (Pylons?)

Landscape designations

Scale of development

De-commissioning

Grid connection

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 10.36

ES Volume 2 Chapter 6

ES Volume 2 Chapter 7

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 6.41

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Question or Comment Received Topic(s) Reference of discussion

Public Response neither objecting or supporting the ProposalWhilst we approve of renewable energy sources, we

do feel as the folk most likely to be inconvenienced by this project we should in some way be compensated

and kept informed of all proposals and developments.

Community benefit

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 1.20

and 17.131

‘Questions: (1) How is it proposed to export the power generated from the site? Will this

involve surface pylons? If so over what route? (2) On the miniature map published, what is the

intended significance of the 2.5km circle?

Comment: The web site at www.cefnymaes.co.uk is uninformative and refers to another site.’

Grid connection

Consultation process

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 6.41

ES Volume 2 Chapter 5

‘Thanks, Look forward to seeing more detail.

I’d like to know your thoughts on the proposed new LDP Powys CC are producing.’

Planning Policy ES Volume 2 Chapter 2

and Planning Statement

I am phoning up about the proposed renewable energy park near Rhydycroesau. I received a

letter dated 20th January it mentions that further information can be found at www.cefnymaes.co.uk, this doesn’t seem to be an up and running website at the moment. Can you phone me back on xxxx

and let me know what the score is and also be able to answer a few other questions I’ve got. I’d like to have information on site lines, development traffic, cost benefit analysis, when you are expecting the

detailed documents and consultation to be issued. I know there appears to be an expected deadline of about 16 weeks to conclude the consultations etc.

Consultation process

Visual impact

Access (construction

traffic)

EIA

ES Volume 2 Chapter 5

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 10.41

ES Volume 2 Paragraph 8.46

ES Volume 2 Chapter 5

In order that I have a better understanding of the proposed development I would be grateful for

a copy of your Non- Technical Summary which I believe must be a prerequisite document readily

available for members of the public to view.

Consultation process

ES Volume 2 Chapter 5

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IMPACTS IDENTIFIED, BY TOPIC

Overall Analysis of Responses

PAC49 Comments from the postcards, emails, letters or phone messages received back from pre-application public consultation were analysed. The conclusion of opinion from respondents is detailed in Table PAC5.

Table PAC5 - Public Opinion

Public Opinion Of The Proposed Renewable Energy Park

Yes Don’t Know/ Neutral

No

1 5 51

PAC50 As described in Chapter 5, ES Volume 2, of the 106 consultations issued to dwellings and businesses, 57 replies were received. This equates to a household response rate of 46%. 51 of the replies were raising concerns with the proposal. This equates to 40% of households notified. It can be assumed that other residents to those who received direct notification through the mailing could have responded to the consultation as notices were put around the site, and community and parish councils were notified of the proposal.

PAC51 Analysis of the responses received from residents and businesses in the area surrounding the proposed development finds that concerns are raised across a number of topics, as shown at Plate PAC3. However, some issues are recurring in many of the objector responses, and these most common matters are discussed further from Paragraph PAC54.

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Plate PAC3 - Topics raised by objectors during the pre-application public consultation

PAC52 The pre-application consultation also resulted in one supporting comment and five responses classed as neutral, not stating an opinion in favour or against the proposal. These are not included in data demonstrated at Plate PAC3.

PAC53 It should be noted that responses received during the pre-application consultation are based upon the draft Environmental Statement. Assessments have been updated as appropriate to include for additional impacts identified, or requests for further information received during the pre-application consultation period. The proposal seeks to address the queries raised during the pre-application consultation.

Key Impacts Identified

Landscape and Visual Impacts

PAC54 The proposed site is not covered by any landscape designations. The Clwydian Range and Dee Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is within 10km of the proposed site, and has been considered accordingly within the Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment contained at Chapter 10, ES Volume 2.

PAC55 Figures 10.1 - 10.9, and Visualisations 1-7 ES Volume 3, accompany the Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment. Viewpoints were selected, in discussion with Powys Council, to be representative of a range of receptors and landscape types. Combined with site visits, the provided viewpoints are considered to be appropriate for the assessment and proposed scale of development.

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Traffic and Transport

PAC56 A route assessment has been undertaken to identify the most appropriate access to the proposed site. This is described within Chapter 8, ES Volume 2 and shown on Figures 8.1 and 8.5, ES Volume 3.

PAC57 The rural nature of the site surroundings and transport network is acknowledged. Avoidance and mitigation measures are proposed to minimise impacts upon users of the surrounding highway, public rights of way and residents in proximity of the site for the construction phase. Measures are discussed in Chapters 8 and 18, ES Volume 2.

Community Involvement and Benefit

PAC58 At the pre-application stage it is understandable that the public are questioning the potential benefits of the project to the community, as plans are being formulated and the developer intends to discuss the options with the community as the project progresses.

PAC59 Paragraphs 1.20 - 1.21, ES Volume 2, state:

‘It is the intention of Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park Limited that those living in the vicinity of the Park receive benefit from the wind turbine, solar array and energy storage facility beyond contributing to the National need for renewables.

The developer is currently exploring the potential for a community ownership scheme to share the economic benefits of the development. This would be offered post consent, which provides local residents with an opportunity to invest in the project but places the high-risk phase of development on the developer and not on residents. The type of investment could be organised through a group such as Community Energy Wales, or a debenture model such as Abundance Investment. REG Power Management has experience of funding wind projects through local investment, and has had discussions with both groups to discuss options for Cefn y Maes.’

PAC60 Further discussion can be found from Paragraph 17.131, ES Volume 2.

The Proposal by way of its size, scale and location

PAC61 The scale of the proposed wind turbine and solar array have been designed to compliment each other, and the proposed energy storage facility. The size of all elements included within the proposal is discussed at Chapter 6, ES Volume 2.

PAC62 The scale of the proposal has been an inherent consideration across the environmental assessments. Each chapter of the ES considers the scale of the proposal in a manner relevant to the discipline. The scale of the proposal on the wider environment is particularly considered in ES Volume 2, Chapter 8 (Traffic and Access) Chapter 9 (Hydrology and Hydrogeology), Chapter 10 (Landscape and Visual Impact), Chapter 11 (Cultural Heritage), Chapter 12 (Ecology and Ornithology), Chapter 13 (Noise), Chapter 14 (Shadow Flicker and Glint/ Glare), Chapter 15 (Telecoms and Utilities) and Chapter 16 (Aviation).

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PAC63 The location of the proposed site was considered during the site design phase to balance environmental constraints and technical considerations with the needs of a renewable energy project. The design of the site was reviewed throughout, to incorporate findings of the Environmental Impact Assessments, as discussed in Chapter 3, ES Volume 2.

Impacts upon Public Rights of Way Users

PAC64 As discussed in Chapter 4, from Paragraph 4.21, ES Volume 2, there are no public rights of way crossing the proposed development area. There are four public rights of way in the immediate surrounding of the site. No public rights of way will be directly impacted as a result of the proposed development. The majority of comments with respect to public rights of way were raised about the visual and amenity impacts of the proposed site’s operational phase. This is considered within Chapter 10, ES Volume 2.

Grid Connection (specific elements of the proposal)

PAC65 It is understood that a number of grid upgrade/extension developments have occurred in the region which has heightened residents sensitivity to such infrastructure. There is no proposal for additional pylons and overhead wires to be added to the existing electricity transmission network in order to export electricity from the proposed site. It is anticipated that cabling will be run from the on-site substation, in an underground cable trench following the site access tracks or field boundaries where possible, to the grid connection point. The Local Distribution Network is the separate responsibility of the connecting utility, SPEN, and connection to the network will be subject to a separate planning application if necessary. This is discussed at Chapter 6, ES Volume 2.

CONCLUSIONS

PAC66 Over 100 properties within 3km of the proposed site were sent a consultation letter including a leaflet detailing the proposal and a pre-paid response postcard for comments about the development. In addition to the consultation mailing for local residents, REG Power Management with Engena, consulted individual Community Councils and Ward Members for the site and surrounding area, as well as specialist consultees appropriate for the proposal.

PAC67 A dedicated project website was created to host draft planning application documentation for reference during the consultation period. The project website (www.cefnymaes.co.uk) will remain active during the project’s planning phase.

PAC68 Responses received from specialist consultees, community councils, and residents have been analysed and reported in full within this Pre-Application Report, and summarised in Chapter 5 of the accompanying Environmental Statement.

PAC69 Overall, 57 responses from residents and businesses were received; 1 of which is in support, 5 are neutral and 51 are objections. Specialist consultees provided useful guidance and no objections were received.

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REFERENCES

Act of Parliament, 2012, Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure0 (Wales) Order: Statutory Instrument 2010 no. 801 (W110), HMSO, UK.

Act of Parliament, 2016, Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (Wales) (Amendment) Order 2016, SI 2016 No. 59 (W.29), HMSO, UK.

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APPENDIX 1 - SITE NOTICE COPY AND ON-SITE RECORD

SCHEDULE 1 Article 4(4)

Pre-application notices

SCHEDULE 1B Articles 2C & 2D

PUBLICITY AND CONSULTATION BEFORE APPLYING FOR PLANNING PERMISSION

Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (Wales) Order 2012

PUBLICITY AND CONSULTATION BEFORE APPLYING FOR PLANNING PERMISSION NOTICE UNDER ARTICLES 2C AND 2D

(to be served on owners and/or occupiers of adjoining land and community consultees; and displayed by site notice on or near the location of the proposed development)

Purpose of this notice: this notice provides the opportunity to comment directly to the developer on a proposed development prior to the submission of a planning application to the local planning authority (“LPA”). Any subsequent planning application will be publicised by the relevant LPA; any comments provided in response to this notice will not prejudice your ability to make representations to the LPA on any related planning application. You should note that any comments submitted may be placed on the public file.

Proposed development at (a) NGR: 322840, 332497, Cefn y Maes, near Rhydycroesau.

I give notice that (b) Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park Limited

is intending to apply for planning permission to (c): install a renewable energy park comprising a single wind turbine (maximum height to tip of 101m), a solar array (contained within approximately 1.2ha), an energy storage facility and ancillary infrastructure.

You may inspect copies of: - the proposed application;

- the plans; and

- other supporting documents

online at (d) www.cefnymaes.co.uk from 23/01/17 and computer facilities are available to view this information online at (e) Llanfyllin Library, Youth and Community Centre, Llanfyllin, Powys, SY22 5BB between the hours of (f) 9.30am - 12.30pm, 1.30pm - 5.30pm Tuesday and Thursday, 1.30pm - 7pm Friday and 9.30am - 12pm Saturday (or) Oswestry Library, Arthur Street, Oswestry, Shropshire, SY11 1JN between the hours of 9.30am - 5.00pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 9.30am - 6.00pm Wednesday, and 9.30am - 4.00pm Saturday.(or) You may view this information at (g) n/a between the hours of (h) n/a.

Anyone who wishes to make representations about this proposed development must write to the applicant/agent at (i) [email protected] or (j) Cefn Y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park, C/o Engena Limited, The Old Stables, Bosmere Hall, Kettle Lane, Creeting St Mary, IP6 8LL.by (k) 20th February 2017

Signed: ………………………………………………

Date: 18th January 2017

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Notice at site entrance

Notice at Public Right of Way adjacent to site’s southern boundary

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Notice at Rhydycroesau Village Hall Noticeboard

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APPENDIX 2 - COPY OF SCHEDULE 1B NOTICE

SCHEDULE 1 Article 4(4)

Pre-application notices

SCHEDULE 1B Articles 2C & 2D

PUBLICITY AND CONSULTATION BEFORE APPLYING FOR PLANNING PERMISSION

Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (Wales) Order 2012

PUBLICITY AND CONSULTATION BEFORE APPLYING FOR PLANNING PERMISSION NOTICE UNDER ARTICLES 2C AND 2D

(to be served on owners and/or occupiers of adjoining land and community consultees; and displayed by site notice on or near the location of the proposed development)

Purpose of this notice: this notice provides the opportunity to comment directly to the developer on a proposed development prior to the submission of a planning application to the local planning authority (“LPA”). Any subsequent planning application will be publicised by the relevant LPA; any comments provided in response to this notice will not prejudice your ability to make representations to the LPA on any related planning application. You should note that any comments submitted may be placed on the public file.

Proposed development at (a) NGR: 322840, 332497, Cefn y Maes, near Rhydycroesau.

I give notice that (b) Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park Limited

is intending to apply for planning permission to (c): install a renewable energy park comprising a single wind turbine (maximum height to tip of 101m), a solar array (contained within approximately 1.2ha), an energy storage facility and ancillary infrastructure.

You may inspect copies of: - the proposed application;

- the plans; and

- other supporting documents

online at (d) www.cefnymaes.co.uk from 23/01/17 and computer facilities are available to view this information online at (e) Llanfyllin Library, Youth and Community Centre, Llanfyllin, Powys, SY22 5BB between the hours of (f) 9.30am - 12.30pm, 1.30pm - 5.30pm Tuesday and Thursday, 1.30pm - 7pm Friday and 9.30am - 12pm Saturday (or) Oswestry Library, Arthur Street, Oswestry, Shropshire, SY11 1JN between the hours of 9.30am - 5.00pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 9.30am - 6.00pm Wednesday, and 9.30am - 4.00pm Saturday.(or) You may view this information at (g) n/a between the hours of (h) n/a.

Anyone who wishes to make representations about this proposed development must write to the applicant/agent at (i) [email protected] or (j) Cefn Y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park, C/o Engena Limited, The Old Stables, Bosmere Hall, Kettle Lane, Creeting St Mary, IP6 8LL.by (k) 20th February 2017

Signed: ………………………………………………

Date: 20th January 2017

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ATODLEN 1 Erthygl 4(4)

Hysbysiadau cyn-ymgeisio

ATODLEN 1B Erthyglau 2C a 2D

CYHOEDDUSRWYDD AC YMGYNGHORI CYN GWNEUD CAIS AM GANIATÂD CYNLLUNIO

Gorchymyn Cynllunio Gwlad a Thref (Gweithdrefn Rheoli Datblygu) (Cymru) 2012

CYHOEDDUSRWYDD AC YMGYNGHORI CYN GWNEUD CAIS AM GANIATÂD CYNLLUNIO HYSBYSIAD O DAN ERTHYGLAU 2C A 2D

(i’w gyflwyno i berchnogion a/neu feddianwyr tir cyffiniol ac ymgyngoreion cymunedol; ac i’w arddangos drwy hysbysiad safle ar neu gerllaw lleoliad y datblygiad arfaethedig)

Diben yr hysbysiad hwn: mae’r hysbysiad hwn yn rhoi cyfle i wneud sylwadau yn uniongyrchol i’r datblygwr ynglŷn â datblygiad arfaethedig cyn cyflwyno cais am ganiatâd cynllunio i’r awdurdod cynllunio lleol (“ACLl”). Bydd unrhyw gais cynllunio dilynol yn cael ei hysbysebu gan yr ACLl perthnasol; ni fydd unrhyw sylwadau a ddarperir gennych wrth ymateb i’r hysbysiad hwn yn lleihau dim ar eich gallu i gyflwyno sylwadau i’r ACLl ar unrhyw gais cynllunio cysylltiedig. Dylech nodi y gellir gosod unrhyw sylwadau a gyflwynir gennych yn y ffeil gyhoeddus.

Datblygiad Arfaethedig yn (a) NGR: 322840, 332497, Cefn y Maes, gerllaw Rhydycroesau.

Rwyf yn hysbysu bod (b) Parc Ynni Adnewyddadwy Cymunedol Cefn y Maes Cyf.

yn bwriadu gwneud cais am ganiatâd cynllunio i (c): osod parc ynni adnewyddadwy yn cynnwys tyrbin gwynt sengl (uchafswm uchder i’r blaen o 101m), aráe paneli solar (wedi’i chynnwys o fewn tua 1.2 hectar), cyfleuster storio ynni a seilwaith ategol.

Gellwch archwilio copïau o’r canlynol: - y cais arfaethedig;

- y planiau; a

- dogfennau ategol eraill

ar-lein yn (d) www.cefnymaes.co.uk o 23/01/17 ac mae cyfleusterau cyfrifiadur ar gael i archwilio’r wybodaeth hon ar lein yn (e) Llyfrgell Llanfyllin, Canolfan Ieuenctid a Chymunedol, Llanfyllin, Powys, SY22 5BB. rhwng yr oriau (f)9.30am - 12.30pm, 1.30pm - 5.30pm dydd Mawrth a dydd Iau, 1.30pm - 7pm dydd Gwener a 9.30am - 12pm dydd Sadwrn (neu) Llyfrgell Croesoswallt, Arthur Street, Croesoswallt, Sir Amwythig, SY11 1JN rhwng 9.30am - 5.00pm Dydd Llun, dydd Mawrth, dydd Iau a dydd Gwener, 9.30am - 6.00pm dydd Mercher, a 9.30am - 4.00pm dydd Sadwrn.

Gellwch weld yr wybodaeth hon yn (g) amherthnasol rhwng yr oriau (h) amherthnasol

Mae’n rhaid i unrhyw un sy’n dymuno gwneud sylwadau ynglŷn â’r datblygiad arfaethedig hwn ysgrifennu at yr ymgeisydd/yr asiant yn (i) [email protected] neu (j) Parc Ynni Adnewyddadwy Cymunedol Cefn y Maes Cyf., trwy law Engena Limited, The Old Stables, Bosmere Hall, Kettle Lane, Creeting St Mary, IP6 8LL.

erbyn (k) 20fed Chwefror 2017

Llofnod: ………………………………………………

Dyddiad: 20fed Ionawr 2017

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APPENDIX 3 - COPY OF SCHEDULE 1C NOTICE

SCHEDULE 1C Article 2D

CONSULTATION BEFORE APPLYING FOR PLANNING PERMISSION Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (Wales) Order 2012

CONSULTATION BEFORE APPLYING FOR PLANNING PERMISSION

NOTICE UNDER ARTICLE 2D

(to be served on specialist consultees, as defined by article 2(1) of the Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (Wales) Order 2012

Purpose of this notice : this notice comprises a formal request for a pre-application consultation response under article 2D of the Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (Wales) Order 2012.

Proposed development at (a) NGR: 322840, 332497, Cefn y Maes, near Rhydycroesau.

I give notice that (b) Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park Limited

is intending to apply for planning permission to (c): install a renewable energy park comprising a single wind turbine (maximum height to tip of 101m), a solar array (contained within approximately 1.2ha), an energy storage facility and ancillary infrastructure. A copy of the proposed application; plans; and other supporting documents are attached/can be viewed online at (d) www.cefnymaes.co.uk from 23/01/17.

In accordance with the requirements of article 2E of the Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (Wales) Order 2012, a consultation response must be sent to (e) [email protected] or Engena, The Old Stables, Bosmere Hall, Kettle Lane, Creeting St. Mary, Ipswich, IP6 8LL by (f) 20th February 2017.

Signed: ………………………………………………

Date: 20th January 2017

41

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ATODLEN 1C Erthygl 2D

YMGYNGHORI CYN GWNEUD CAIS AM GANIATÂD CYNLLUNIO Gorchymyn Cynllunio Gwlad a Thref (Gweithdrefn Rheoli Datblygu) (Cymru) 2012

YMGYNGHORI CYN GWNEUD CAIS AM GANIATÂD CYNLLUNIO

HYSBYSIAD O DAN ERTHYGL 2D

(i’w gyflwyno i ymgyngoreion arbenigol, fel y’u diffinnir gan erthygl 2(1) o Orchymyn Cynllunio Gwlad a Thref (Gweithdrefn Rheoli Datblygu) (Cymru) 2012

Diben yr hysbysiad hwn: mae’r hysbysiad hwn yn ddeisyfiad ffurfiol am ymateb i ymgynghoriad cyn- ymgeisio o dan erthygl 2D o Orchymyn Cynllunio Gwlad a Thref (Gweithdrefn Rheoli Datblygu) (Cymru) 2012.

Datblygiad arfaethedig yn (a) NGR: 322840, 332497, Cefn y Maes, gerllaw Rhydycroesau.

Rwyf yn hysbysu bod (b) Parc Ynni Adnewyddadwy Cymunedol Cefn y Maes Cyf.

yn bwriadu gwneud cais am ganiatâd cynllunio i (c): osod parc ynni adnewyddadwy yn cynnwys tyrbin gwynt sengl (uchafswm uchder i’r blaen o 101m), aráe paneli solar (wedi’i chynnwys o fewn tua 1.2 hectar), cyfleuster storio ynni a seilwaith ategol.

Mae copi o’r cais arfaethedig; planiau; a dogfennau ategol eraill wedi eu hatodi/ar gael i’w harchwilio ar lein yn (d) www.cefnymaes.co.uk o 23/01/17.

Yn unol â gofynion erthygl 2E o Orchymyn Cynllunio Gwlad a Thref (Gweithdrefn Rheoli Datblygu) (Cymru) 2012, rhaid anfon ymateb i’r ymgynghoriad at (e) [email protected] neu Engena, The Old Stables, Bosmere Hall, Kettle Lane, Creeting St. Mary, Ipswich, IP6 8LL erbyn (f) 20fed Chwefror 2017. Llofnod: ………………………………………………

Dyddiad: 20fed Ionawr 2017

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APPENDIX 4 - DISTRIBUTED CONSULTATION DOCUMENTS

Consultation Letter

CEFN Y MAES COMMUNITY RENEWABLE ENERGY PARK

The Owner and/or Occupier, Near Cefn y Maes, Powys.

23rd January 2017

Proposed Renewable Energy Park at Cefn y Maes, near Rhydycroesau

Dear Sir/Madam,

We are proposing a Renewable Energy Park consisting of a single wind turbine, solar panels and energy storage facility on land 680m north-east of Pen-y-Gwely Reservoir and 2.2km north-west of Rhydycroesau. We would like to ensure local residents are aware of the project before a planning application is submitted to Powys County Council in the coming months.

REG Power Management Limited is working in collaboration with Engena Limited on this project. Our joint experience in the development, construction and operation of renewable projects ensures that thorough assessments are undertaken whilst planning the project and the renewable electricity output of the site during operation is maximised.

The scheme has been designed using renewable energy technologies which complement each other in terms of generation. We are particularly enthusiastic about the addition of an energy storage unit which will allow the output to be used when it’s needed most.

Please refer to the official notice enclosed, as well as the leaflet outlining the proposal. More information can be found at www.cefnymaes.co.uk.

If you have any questions or comments about the proposal I would be very happy to answer them. You can provide these via the website, on the enclosed postcard, or via email at [email protected] or phone 02921 286525.

For your comments to be included within the planning application documentation, please reply by 20th February 2017.

If you wish to be kept up to date on progress of the planning application, please indicate on the postcard, or let me know via email or phone.

Yours faithfully,

Claire Hewett Project Manager

Engena Limited, The Old Stables, Bosmere Hall, Kettle Lane, Creeting St Mary, IP22 4ED.

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PARC YNNI ADNEWYDDADWY CYMUNED CEFN Y MAES

Perchennog / Meddiannydd Ger Cefn y Maes Powys.

23 Ionawr 2017

Parc Ynni Adnewyddadwy Arfaethedig yng Nghefn y Maes, ger Rhydycroesau

Annwyl Syr/Madam,

Rydym yn cynnig Parc Ynni sy’n cynnwys tyrbin gwynt sengl, paneli solar a chyfleuster storio ynni ar dir sydd 680m i’r gogledd-ddwyrain o Gronfa Ddŵr Pen-y-Gwely a 2.2km i’r gogledd-orllewin o Rydycroesau. Hoffem sicrhau bod preswylwyr lleol yn ymwybodol o’r prosiect cyn i ni gyflwyno cais cynllunio i Gyngor Sir Powys yn y misoedd i ddod.

Mae REG Power Management Limited yn gweithio ar y cyd ag Engena Limited ar y prosiect hwn. Sicrha ein profiad ar y cyd o ddatblygu, adeiladu a gweithredu prosiectau adnewyddadwy bod asesiadau trwyadl yn cael eu gwneud yn ystod cynllunio’r prosiect ac y gwneir y mwyaf o gynhyrchiant trydan adnewyddadwy’r safle.

Mae’r cynllun wedi’i gynllunio gan ddefnyddio technolegau ynni adnewyddadwy sy’n gweddu â’i gilydd yn dda o ran cynhyrchiant. Rydym yn arbennig o frwdfrydig ynghylch ychwanegu uned storio ynni a fydd yn caniatáu i’r cynhyrchiant gael ei ddefnyddio pan fydd ei angen fwyaf.

Cyfeiriwch at yr hysbysiad swyddogol amgaeedig, yn ogystal â’r daflen sy’n amlinellu’r cynnig. Mae mwy o wybodaeth ar gael o www.cefnymaes.co.uk.

Os oes gennych unrhyw gwestiynau neu sylwadau am y cynnig buaswn yn fodlon iawn eu hateb. Gallwch eu cyflwyno trwy’r wefan, ar y cerdyn post amgaeedig, trwy e-bostio [email protected] neu ffonio 02921 286525.

Er mwyn sicrhau bod eich sylwadau yn cael eu cynnwys yn nogfennau’r cais cynllunio, gwnewch yn siŵr eich bod yn ymateb erbyn 20fed Chwefror 2017.

Os dymunwch gael y diweddaraf ar gynnydd y cais cynllunio, nodwch hynny ar y cerdyn post, neu rhowch wybod i mi drwy e-bost neu dros y ffôn.

Yr eiddoch yn gywir,

Claire Hewett Rheolwr Prosiect

Engena Limited, The Old Stables, Bosmere Hall, Kettle Lane, Creeting St Mary, IP22 4ED.

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Consultation Emails Sent

From: Claire Hewett [email protected]: Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park - Consultation

Date: 24 January 2017 at 12:26To: Claire Hewett [email protected]

Bcc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected],[email protected], [email protected], [email protected],[email protected], [email protected], [email protected],[email protected], [email protected], Kate Bowen [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], Consultations (NE) [email protected], [email protected]

Dear Sirs/ Madams,

Please find attached information relating to a pre-application consultation open for a proposed renewable energy park at Cefn y Maes, north west of Rhydycroesau.

The proposal is for a renewable energy park consisting of a single wind turbine, a ground mounted solar array and an energy storage device (battery). The proposal will be accompanied by an Environmental Statement, a draft of which is available to view at www.cefnymaes.co.uk

In order to collect the views of the local community, and to incorporate their comments into the forthcoming application, we have written to 106 homes within 3km of the site, enclosing the attached letter, information leaflet and Freepost reply card. We are pleased that we have started to receive comments back.

If you would like further information or have any comments, please do get in touch.

Kind regards,

Claire.

From: Claire Hewett [email protected]: Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park - consultation

Date: 24 January 2017 at 16:51To: [email protected]

Dear Sirs/ Madams,

Please find attached information relating to a pre-application consultation open for a proposed renewable energy park at Cefn y Maes, north west of Rhydycroesau.

The proposal is for a renewable energy park consisting of a single wind turbine, a ground mounted solar array and an energy storage device (battery). The proposal will be accompanied by an Environmental Statement, a draft of which is available to view at www.cefnymaes.co.uk

In order to collect the views of the local community, and to incorporate their comments into the forthcoming application, we have written to 106 homes within 3km of the site, enclosing the attached letter, information leaflet and Freepost reply card. We are pleased that we have started to receive comments back.

If you would like further information or have any comments, please do get in touch.

Kind regards,

Claire.

CyM_CommunityConsultation Leaflet.pdf

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From: Claire Hewett [email protected]: Fwd: Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park - Consultation

Date: 1 February 2017 at 14:34To: [email protected], [email protected]

Dear Mr Litherland and Mr Iles,

Please find attached information relating to a pre-application consultation open for a proposed renewable energy park at Cefn y Maes, north west of Rhydycroesau.

The proposal is for a renewable energy park consisting of a single wind turbine, a ground mounted solar array and an energy storage device (battery). The proposal will be accompanied by an Environmental Statement, a draft of which is available to view at www.cefnymaes.co.uk

In order to collect the views of the local community, and to incorporate their comments into the forthcoming application, we have written to 106 homes within 3km of the site, enclosing the attached letter, information leaflet and a Freepost reply card. We are pleased that we have started to receive comments back. In addition we are consulting with Community Council, Councillors and Specialist Consultees and the local planning authority in line with Article 1 of the Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (Wales) (Amendment) Order 2016.

If you would like further information or have any comments, please do get in touch.

Kind regards,

Claire.

CyM Statutory SiteNotice.pdf

From: Claire Hewett [email protected]: Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park - Consultation

Date: 24 January 2017 at 11:23To: Claire Hewett [email protected]

Bcc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected],[email protected], [email protected], [email protected]

Dear Sirs/ Madams,

Please find attached information relating to a pre-application consultation open for a proposed renewable energy park at Cefn y Maes, north west of Rhydycroesau.

The proposal is for a renewable energy park consisting of a single wind turbine, a ground mounted solar array and an energy storage device (battery). The proposal will be accompanied by an Environmental Statement, a draft of which is available to view at www.cefnymaes.co.uk

In order to collect the views of the local community, and to incorporate their comments into the forthcoming application, we have written to 106 homes within 3km of the site, enclosing the attached letter, information leaflet and Freepost reply card. We are pleased that we have started to receive comments back.

If you would like further information or have any comments, please do get in touch.

Kind regards,

Claire.

CyM Community SiteNotice.pdf

CyM_CommunityConsultation Leaflet.pdf

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Consultation Leaflet

Key Elements of the Proposal:• a single wind turbine (maximum height of 101m);• an array of approximately 2,590 solar panels which are mounted on frames and are no higher than

2.35m from the ground;• 500kW energy storage equipment contained in two small units;• 30 year project lifetime, after which the project would be decommissioned;• a small cabin to contain the electrical equipment (transformer, switchgear and metering);• a hardstanding formed of crushed stone (for use by the crane during erection); and• a temporary access track and construction compound, laid for the construction period only.

The Proposal

CEFN Y MAES COMMUNITY RENEWABLE ENERGY PARK

Cefn y Maes Renewable Energy Park Ltd. is proposing the combined installation of a single wind turbine, solar array and energy storage facility on land 680m north-east of Pen-y-gwely Reservoir and 2.2km north-west of Rhydycroesau.

This innovative renewable energy hybrid scheme is expected to generate approximately 2,530,000 units of electricity every year1

which is equivalent to the average electricity consumption of 554 Powys homes2.

The Benefits:• A scheme of complimentary technologies to supply electricity when it is needed most;

• Renewable energy generation equivalent to the average electricity consumption of approximately 554 Powys homes2;

• Offset of emissions through renewable energy generation;

• Opportunity for local people to invest in a renewable energy project;

• Materials and services will be sourced, where practical, from suitably qualified local and regional contractors; and

• Business rates paid to Powys County Council throughout the 30 year operating period.

Not to Scale. © Crown copyright, All rights reserved. 2017, Licence number 0100031673

Solar panels

Temporary Access Track

Energy Storage Unit and Electrical Equipment Cabin

Wind Turbine

Site LocationHardstanding

Temporary Construction Compound

Post and Wire Fence: area within

approximately 1.2ha

2.5km

North

North

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YOUR QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS

If you have any comments or questions regarding the proposal then please return the enclosed pre-paid comments postcard, or contact us on the below details. Powys Council will run a further statutory consultation once the application is submitted.

Email: [email protected] Phone: 02921 286525 www.cefnymaes.co.uk

The Development ProcessInitial assessment of the site showed that it has potential for the combined installation of a wind turbine, solar panels and energy storage facility. The detailed studies are nearly complete, and will be submitted with a planning application to Powys County Council in early 2017. All of these studies will be publicly available. The development process is shown below.

Site Feasibility, Design and Layout

Project Screening and ScopingThe proposal is screened with the Local Planning Authority to determine the level

of environmental assessment required and subsequently the scope of work.

Environmental StudiesStudies into traffic, ecology, noise, landscape, cultural heritage, flood risk,

shadow flicker, glint/glare, telecoms and aviation are undertaken to be presented in the planning application.

Pre-application ConsultationTo inform the neighbours of the proposals and the upcoming planning

application.Public

consultation

*1. NOABL average wind speed of 7.2m/s with EWT DW 52 turbine, Jinko Eagle 60 panels and RenSMART PVGIS Solar Map. 1 unit = 1kWh*2. Powys average domestic electricity consumption of 4,564 kWh/household (Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, 2016).All figures reported to 3 significant figures unless stated otherwise.Produced by Engena Limited for Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park Ltd.

The ApplicantREG Power Management, working in collaboration with Engena Limited, is proposing the development through Cefn y Maes Community Renewable Energy Park Ltd.

REG power Management and Engena are independent UK based companies experienced in the development, construction and operation of renewable energy projects.

Planning ApplicationFull details of the proposal and the results of the assessments are presented

within the application. A decision on the outcome of the project should be made in approximately 16 weeks from submission for a project of this type. The Local

Planning Authority will consult locally during this period.

CEFN Y MAES COMMUNITY RENEWABLE ENERGY PARK

We are here

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Elfennau Allweddol y Cynnig: • tyrbin gwynt sengl (uchafswm uchder o 101m); • arae o oddeutu 2,590 o baneli solar sydd wedi’u gosod ar fframiau a dim uwch na 2.35m o’r

ddaear; • 500kW o offer storio ynni wedi’u cynnwys mewn dwy uned fach; • oes bywyd y prosiect fydd 30 mlynedd, ar ôl hynny bydd y prosiect yn cael ei ddad-gomisiynu; • caban bach i gynnwys yr offer trydanol (newidydd, offer switsio a mesuryddion); • llawr caled wedi’i wneud o gerrig mâl (i’w ddefnyddio gan graen yn ystod codiad); a• thrac mynediad dros dro a chwrt adeiladu, wedi’u gosod ar gyfer y cyfnod adeiladu’n unig.

Y Cynnig

PARC YNNI ADNEWYDDADWY CYMUNEDOL CEFN Y MAES

Mae Parc Ynni Adnewyddadwy Cefn y Maes Cyf yn cynnig gosodiad cyfunol o un tyrbin gwyn, arae solar a chyfleuster storio ynni ar dir 680m i’r gogledd-ddwyrain o Gronfa Ddŵr Pen-y-gwely a 2.2km i’r gogledd-orllewin o Rydycroesau.

Disgwylir i’r cynllun hybrid ynni adnewyddadwy arloesol hwn gynhyrchu oddeutu 2,530,000 uned o drydan bob blwyddyn1. Mae hyn yn cyfateb i gyfartaledd defnydd trydan o 554 o gartrefi Powys2.

Y Manteision: • Cynllun o dechnolegau ategol i gyflenwi trydan pan fydd ei angen fwyaf;

• Creu ynni adnewyddadwy a oedd yn cyfateb i gyfartaledd defnydd trydan oddeutu 554 o gartrefi Powys2;

• Gwrthbwyso allyriadau drwy gynhyrchu ynni adnewyddadwy;

• Cyfle i bobl leol fuddsoddi mewn prosiect ynni adnewyddadwy;

• Daw deunyddiau a gwasanaeth gan gontractwyr lleol a rhanbarthol yn meddu cymwysterau addas; a

• Thelir cyfraddau busnes i Gyngor Sir Powys drwy gydol y cyfnod gweithredu o 30 mlynedd.

Dim i Raddfa. © Hawlfraint y Goron, cedwir pob hawl. 2017, Rhif trwydded 0100031673

Paneli Solar

Trac Mynediad Dros Dro

Uned Storio Ynni a Chabinet Offer

Trydanol

Tyrbin Gwynt

Lleoliad SafleLlawr caled

Cwrt Adeiladu Dros Dro

Ffens Postyn a Weiren: ardal o fewn 1.2ha

2.5km

gogledd

gogledd

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EICH CWESTIYNAU NEU SYLWADAU

Os oes gennych unrhyw sylwadau neu gwestiynau ynghylch y cynnig yna dychwelwch y cerdyn post amgaeedig sydd wedi ei dalu amdano’n barod, neu cysylltwch â ni drwy’r manylion isod. Bydd Cyngor Powys yn rhedeg ymgynghoriad statudol pellach unwaith y cyflwynir y cais. E-bost: [email protected] Ffôn: 02921 286525

www.cefnymaes.co.uk

Y Broses DdatblyguDangosodd asesiad cychwynnol o’r safle ei fod â’r potensial ar gyfer gosodiad cyfunol o dyrbin gwynt, paneli solar a chyfleuster storio ynni. Mae’r astudiaethau manwl bron yn gyflawn a chânt eu cyflwyno gyda chais cynllunio i Gyngor Sir Powys ar ddechrau 2017. Bydd yr holl astudiaethau hyn ar gael yn gyhoeddus. Dangosir y broses ddatblygu isod.

Dichonoldeb, Dyluniad a Chynllun Safle

Gwirio a Chwmpasu ProsiectGwirir y cynnig gyda’r Awdurdod Cynllunio Lleol i benderfynu ar y lefel o asesiad

amgylcheddol gofynnol a chwmpas y gwaith o ganlyniad.

Astudiaethau AmgylcheddolYmgymerir astudiaethau ar draffig, ecoleg, sŵn, tirwedd, treftadaeth

ddiwylliannol, perygl llifogydd, cysgodion symudol, llewyrch/llewych, telathrebu a hedfan i’w cyflwyno yn y cais cynllunio.

Ymgynghoriad Cyn YmgeisioHysbysu’r cymdogion am y cynigion a’r cais cynllunio sydd ar y gweill. Ymgyngho-

riad Cy-hoeddus

*1. Cyflymder gwynt cyfartalog NOABL o 7.2m/s gyda thyrbin EWT DW 52, Jinko Eagle 60 baneli a Map Solar RenSMART PVGIS. 1 uned = 1kWh*2. Defnydd trydan domestig cyfartalog Powys o 4,564 kWh/cartref (Adran Fusnes, Ynni a Strategaeth Ddiwydiannol, 2016).Holl ffigurau wedi’u hadrodd at 3 ffigur arwyddocaol oni nodir yn wahanol.Cynhyrchwyd gan Engen Limited ar gyfer Parc Ynni Adnewyddadwy Cefn y Maes Cyf.

Yr YmgeisyddMae REG Power Management, gan weithio ar y cyd ag Engena Limited, yn cynnig y datblygiad drwy Barc Ynni Adnewyddadwy Cymunedol Cefn y Maes Cyf.

Mae REG Power Management ac Engena yn gwmnïau annibynnol sydd wedi’u lleoli yn y DU ac sydd â phrofiad mewn datblygu, adeiladu a gweithredu prosiectau ynni adnewyddadwy.

Cais CynllunioCyflwynir manylion llawn y cynnig a chanlyniadau’r asesiadau o fewn y cais.

Dylid gwneud penderfyniad ar ganlyniad y prosiect oddeutu 16 wythnos wedi cyflwyno ar gyfer prosiect o’r math hwn. Bydd yr Awdurdod Cynllunio Lleol yn

ymgynghori’n lleol yn ystod y cyfnod hwn.

PARC YNNI ADNEWYDDADWY CYMUNEDOL CEFN Y MAES

Rydym yma

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Consultation Freepost Return Postcard

Your Comments Your Details

Name:

Address:

Phone/email:

Project Code (office use only)

Freepost Plus RTJT-BSCR-JTSX Engena Ltd Kettle Lane Creeting St Mary IPSWICH IP6 8LL

TATDDDAFTTTATADTDTFFDTDDDTDATDTFADTA

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Print of Project Website (www.cefnymaes.co.uk)

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