Bodham and Selbrigg wind turbines – NNDC confirms appeal against legal decision

Date published: 15th August 2018

North Norfolk District Council has confirmed it will appeal a High Court decision which would lead to a key wind turbine decision being heard via the written representation method instead of a Public Inquiry.

Last week it was announced that the High Court had overturned an appeal by NNDC which sought to ensure a Public Inquiry was used in the next stage of the Bodham and Selbrigg wind turbines planning process, as opposed to written representations.

NNDC felt it was important to give the public the chance to make their point directly to an Inspector rather than it being a desktop exercise. The written representations would reduce the voice of the local people who have for so long resisted the building of these turbines on the Cromer ridge. North Norfolk District Council has consistently supported the objectors to these turbines over a number of years.

Sue Arnold, North Norfolk District Council’s Conservative Cabinet Member for Planning and Planning Policy, said: “I have received so many emails expressing disappointment and dismay at this decision and continuing support for the Council’s stance on the subject.

“It is so appreciated knowing there is so much support for the stance we have taken in opposing these applications.

“We will be appealing this latest decision.

“This course of action could be costly for the Council but it is the view of the majority of members that this is a fight for democracy on behalf of the local people and in defence of our beautiful countryside.”

Sarah Butikofer, North Norfolk District Council’s Liberal Democrat Group Leader, said: “Whilst we are very aware of the financial implications for the Council, it is essential in a democracy that everyone has the ability to have their voice heard.

“As guardians of our beautiful countryside we have a duty to ensure we have done everything possible to protect it.”

In May 2017, the District Council successfully challenged a previous Inspector’s decision to allow the two turbine appeals following a seven-day joint Public Inquiry in late 2016.

It was expected that the Planning Inspectorate would hold a new joint Public Inquiry to re-consider the appeals.

The long running case also saw an earlier application for an 86.5m-tall turbine rejected by NNDC in 2012, approved by a Planning Inspector on appeal but that decision was overturned in the High Court in February 2014.