Dear Editor,

After the illegal decision by Ceredigion County Council to allow planning permission for the wind turbine at Trebared Farm, Gwbert Road, Application No: A130237 had been quashed in the High Court, it seems that the whole process of application, public consultation and potential planning permission must be carried out again as a new planning application for a wind turbine has been received by the Council.

One assumes that, after the previous debacle, which showed the Councillors worrying lack of knowledge and awareness of their own regulations, some homework has been done, so that they actually understand the parameters within which they are legally obliged to operate, and will thus be looking at the new application with more educated eyes.

We are puzzled by the attitude taken by those Councillors that voted to pass the previous application, an attitude that seems to fly in the face of their democratic duty. The objectors against the application out- stripped the supporters in terms of numbers and the Chief Planning Officer who is charged with assessing the democratic process and through it reaching a recommendation, declared that the application ‘be refused’ and emphasized the strong public view that such an iconic, historic landscape should not be spoiled and devalued by the proposed structure.

The Councillors involved ignored both the numerical superiority of the objectors and the considered opinion of their professional advisor which begs the question – whose interests are they serving? Are they public servants or self-servants? Democracy suggests that a majority should rule. These events suggest that their own private and personal opinions are thought more wise and valuable than that of the people they claim to serve.

If members of the public, residents or visitors feel that this proposed wind turbine would be inappropriate and that the planning process may be abused once more, they should please write as soon as possible to Head of Planning at Cyngor Sir Ceredigion, Penmorfa, Aberaeron SA46 0PA and quote Application No. A130806, saying that they object to it because a wind turbine in that location would damage a very special and historic landscape. An objector must give their name and address, each objection counts, so that two are much better than one joint one from a single address. Every objection will be very important and must state a valid planning reason (as above). You can e-mail to huw.williams@ceredigion.gov.uk if preferred, giving name and address.

C & K BLUNDELL,

Brynymor, Cardigan.