HAS Burtonwood got a new iconic landmark?

The installation of a wind turbine on greenbelt land next to the M62 by Causeway Bridges Farm on Alder Lane has now been completed.

Planning permission was agreed back in July 2011 seven months after the applications was submitted by Wind Direct Ltd.

This is despite strong opposition and concerns raised by nearby residents and councillors about the proposed plans.

Warrington Guardian:

Photo by Allan Mason Photography & Aerial Filming

Members of Burtonwood and Westbrook Parish Council were among those who agreed to oppose the plans for the 77 metre-high turbine.

This is following fears the renewable energy structure might impact on residents both visually and environmentally as well as industrialise the surrounding countryside.

The decision was also deferred on more than one occasion after bosses at Liverpool’s John Lennon Airport feared the proposed wind turbine could affect the radar used to monitor the flight path of planes.

But senior figures later dropped their objections.

In a U-turn, airport bosses changed their minds as long as work was carried out in a manner which would ensure the radar was not disrupted.

The application was also deferred so that site visits could be carried out by councillors.

According to planning documents the scheme aims to generate electricity for export to National Grid and a number of businesses in the surrounding area.

After the application was approved by councillors during a planning meeting other conditions were attached to the construction of the turbine.

This included measures to prevent TV interference, a water vole protection plan and any faults that occur to be corrected immediately.

Applicants Wind Direct withdrew plans for two 80-metre turbines at the same site in May 2008.