Wind Energy Development Spatial Framework

In addition to the assessment of impacts outlined above, the Council has developed and will apply the following Spatial Framework for wind energy development. Group 1: Areas where wind turbines will not be acceptable • Areas of active peatland • Strategic Landscape Policy Areas • Coastal Policy Area In these areas, the Council will operate a presumption against proposals for new wind turbines. Group 2: Areas of protection • International and National Sites of Nature Conservation Importance • Historic Parks, Gardens and Demesnes • 1 km area around settlements In these areas, proposals will generally only be appropriate in circumstances where any significant effects on the amenity and qualities of these areas can be substantially overcome by siting, design and other forms of mitigation. Group 3: Areas with potential for wind turbines • Areas beyond Groups 1 and 2 In these areas, wind turbine proposals are generally likely to be acceptable, subject to detailed consideration of impacts against all relevant plan policies.