A PLANNING application to erect a wind turbine on land near South Tawton has been refused by West Devon Borough Council.

Somerset-based Murex Energy proposed in May to build one wind turbine with an estimated output of 500 kilowatts, a new access track and associated infrastructure. The hub height would have been 40 metres with a 67m tip height.

However, West Devon planners at their meeting last month refused the application on grounds that 'its siting and size would have a substantial detrimental effect upon the setting of, views and the enjoyment of, nearby listed buildings and conservation area'.

The council concluded that it did not consider that the environmental benefits of the proposal outweighed the harm to the heritage assets, the nearby Wood House and Wickington Farmhouse.

Planning officers said: 'The proposal by reason of its scale, movement and location would have a significant visual impact upon the surrounding landscape character of the area with significant impact upon the special character of Dartmoor National Park.'

Borough councillor William Cann, representing South Tawton, recommended refusal to district planners.

He said: 'I feel that this would be detrimental to the community and that the landscape value would be completely taken away from the conservation area of South Tawton and South Zeal and in full view of the Grade One church in South Tawton.

'Having read the National Park policies, it is clear to me that this wind turbine is not suitable for this location.'

Dartmoor National Park Authority, South Tawton Parish Council and English Heritage had also objected to the plan. There were no objections from Natural England.

Murex Energy Limited, who operate medium scale renewable projects in the South West, do have the right to appeal to the planning inspectorate.

l An application to erect a wind turbine at Widdacombe Farm, Lobhill Cross, Lewdown, has been submitted to West Devon Borough Council.

The proposals by F Yeo are for one turbine and associated infrastructure. The turbine would have an estimated estimated output of 50 kilowatts with a 37 metre hub height and 46 metre tip height.

West Devon Borough Council has asked for comments to be submitted by September 26.