PROPOSALS for the repowering of a large windfarm near to Launceston has been approved by Cornwall Council.

In the first strategic planning committee of Cornwall Council since its recent election, the committee which comprises of members from both the cabinet and opposition parties, councillors heard about the proposals for the installation of 22 windmills of 115 metres in height.

The proposals concerned Cold Northcott wind Farm at Laneast, Launceston, with the application made by Cold Northcott Windfarm Ltd.

At the meeting, the committee heard representations both for and against the proposals, in addition to presentations from Adam Carlyon, the Cornwall Council planning officer responsible for the case in addition to Mr Mark Quinn, the director of the applicant and his planning agent, Walter Wonnacott.

Mr Quinn and Mr Northcott told the committee that the power output from the proposed re-powered windfarm would be sufficient to meet 10 per cent of Cornwall’s energy needs and would also involve a ‘private wire’ supply providing direct power to the nearby Davidstow Creamery.

The duo said that the operators of the creamery, Saputo had said that if the plans were approved it would help reduce their carbon impact from the energy required for their operations and would safeguard the future of the facility.

Submissions on behalf of those against the proposals were also heard, including concerns raised by some of the parish councils which the vast site falls into.

Concerns raised included the vast size of the new windfarm in comparison to the previous one at the site, which had been built in the early 1990s and were of a smaller size and the potential for distraction to motorists.

Councillors voted by a majority of nine to two to approve a motion by Cllr Alvey and seconded by Cllr Martin to approve the proposals.