§ Jim KnightTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what his policy is on the support of wind turbine deployers seeking planning consent in consultative statements issued by Defence Estates of district councils as part of the planning consent issue process. [27274]
§ Dr. MoonieThe Ministry of Defence has a policy to assess each wind farm proposal on a case-by-case basis. We have an agreement with the wind energy industry that enables Defence Estates Safeguarding section to receive details of wind farms from individual companies some time prior to them applying for formal planning permission.
If the developer subsequently proceeds to seek formal planning permission from the local planning authority (LPA) and the site lies outside a formally safeguarded area then there is no statutory obligation on the authority to consult Defence Estates although most do so. In cases where the MOD does object to a proposal and the developer continues with the project then Defence Estates would seek to be formally consulted by the local authority.
As with all planning application consultations, Defence Estates Safeguarding strives to meet the response deadlines imposed by the planning process. Where we are unable to meet the deadline because the assessment is still being undertaken the LPA are advised to wait for our reply before consent is given. This action ensures that development does not occur that will either cause a safety hazard to military activity or interfere with the ability to train effectively.