UK trade body RenewableUK has rejected claims that the rejection of approval for the Barnwell Manor Wind Farm in Northamptonshire will set a precedent for future onshore projects in the country.
RenewableUK deputy chief executive Maf Smith remarked that such suggestions would be wrong and misplaced as each wind farm application is considered on a case by case basis.
"The fact that this application went to the High Court shows that, at times, decisions are finely balanced and difficult to reach," explained Smith.
The court’s decision was at odds with the previous planning permission given by Planning Inspectorate and raised concerns of a possible change in government policy.
RenewableUK, however, sought to allay such fears and stated that one single judgment could not set an unchangeable pattern.
"The High Court judge Mrs. Justice Lang earlier passed a ruling in favor of the National Trust and heritage campaigners citing heritage concerns, thereby overruling the previously approved project on land owned by the Duke of Gloucester," explained Smith.
The judge has maintained that the Inspector has failed in accurately interpreting the effects of the construction on the heritage site besides failing in giving clear reasoning.
West Coast Energy managing director Robert Tate noted, "We are extremely disappointed that the statutory challenge has been successful and that the proposals for our 4 turbine wind energy development have been remitted back to determination by the planning inquiry process."