Guestwick

Client: Broadland District Council
Location: Guestwick, Norfolk

Brief

LiZLaKe were appointed by Broadland District Council to advise on the landscape and visual issues associated with an application for a wind turbine development comprising six 125m high turbines on farmland adjacent the village of Guestwick, Norfolk. The area surrounding the site is considered to be of high landscape value.

Approach

Our work included advice on the landscape and visual requirements of a scoping document for the Environmental Impact Assessment, liaising with the Applicant's landscape consultants and reviewing sections of the Environmental Statement submitted with the Application.

Following the refusal of planning permission we were instructed to prepare evidence to support our original analysis that the proposals would have a significant adverse impact on the character and quality of the surrounding landscape and on the setting of Guestwick village. Michelle Bolger appeared as an expert witness at the subsequent Public Inquiry.

Outcome

The Inspector's decision refused the appeal and supported our assessment of the historic value of the landscape. Unfortunately, the decision has been overturned at judicial review and a new appeal is to be held. Broadland District Council has instructed LiZLaKe to give evidence at the new Inquiry.