UK - Wind turbine planned for Tesco car park

A wind turbine could be built in the heart of Daventry to help power a town centre supermarket.
Tesco had applied to put up a 10-metre tall turbine with a distinctive design in the car park of its New Street store. The company withdrew the application to allow for alterations to the turbine design but now says it is likely to resubmit it.

A Tesco spokesman said: "It was part of a number of applications we're making across the company and it's part of our investment in green energy.

"Where sites are suitable for the installation of wind turbines then we are putting those forward.

"The turbine can output enough energy for four homes.

"It's one of the most efficient designs available at the moment, so it's good in terms of how much bang you get for your buck. Also its size and design means its quite discreet as well."

The distinctive vertical turbine design proposed in the original application would take up two parking spaces.

Unlike the usual windmill-type turbines, this one will have blades rotating vertically around the supporting pole.

The spokesman continued: "I suspect the planning application was withdrawn to allow for slight alterations to the turbine design to be incorporated.

"But, I would have thought it will be re-submitted because that Tesco has been identified as suitable for one."

The planning application says: "The proposed development reflects the surrounding uses and would not have an unacceptable impact on residential amenity in terms of noise or visual amenity.

"The proposed development would have a positive contribution to the image of the existing development and surrounding locale by promoting the provision of energy from wind.

"It will also act as a landmark for the area and will encourage people to think about green-issues."

Daventry Town Council's planning committee objected to the original plans after discussing them.

Committee chairman Glenda Simmonds said: "As far as I'm concerned it's not appropriate for a town centre establishment.

"It would be fine if the store was an out-of-town one, but it's just overpowering.

"It will also take up valuable car parking spaces."

For more information, please contact Trevor Sievert at ts@windfair.net