New wind turbines could be installed at Avonmouth to generate renewable energy after the government lifts its onshore ban. As part of plans to massively increase the amount of green energy generated in Bristol, sites in Avonmouth could be earmarked for new onshore wind.
Bristol City Council chiefs are looking at several areas in Avonmouth where new wind turbines could be built, as part of the new Local Plan which sets out how the city should develop. At least £424 million is also planned for energy projects under the City Leap deal, including a huge 180 megawatts of new renewable energy generators.
For several years the government has effectively banned new wind turbines to be built in England on land, although offshore wind turbines have seen a dramatic increase recently. However this month the government appears to have promised to scrap that onshore ban.
Read more: City Leap deal signed off marking ‘very important step’ in city’s route to net zero
During a member forum meeting on Tuesday, December 13, Labour Councillor Christopher Jackson asked whether the government scrapping its onshore wind ban meant the council was planning to build turbines in Bristol. He added wind was “critical to reaching net zero”.
He said: “I’m thankful for the Tory government doing another U-turn and lifting the ban on onshore wind. Wind is the cheapest, cleanest energy and maximising it in the UK is critical to our energy independence, bringing down bills, and reaching net zero. With the ban set to be lifted, has the council made any plans to facilitate new onshore wind turbines in Bristol?”
The council is currently consulting the public on the new Local Plan. This is a key document setting out where new housing developments, offices and other major buildings should take place across Bristol. The Local Plan also sets out rules which property developers should follow, like including heat pumps or defibrillators in major new developments.
Cllr Kye Dudd, cabinet member for climate, said: “With the Local Plan review, we’re looking at allocations in the Avonmouth area for wind turbines. Within our boundaries, that’s probably the best option. There are other options outside our boundaries, but obviously that’s not for us to decide. But we would welcome them coming forward as well in neighbouring authorities.”
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