§ Malcolm BruceTo ask the Deputy Prime Minister which types of designated areas within the United Kingdom are protected from future development of onshore wind farms; and what legislation enforces this protection [84559]
§ Mr. WilsonI have been asked to reply.
No areas within the United Kingdom are specifically designated as "no-go" areas for wind farm development. Each case is assessed on its own individual merit. Planning Policy Guidance Note 7 states that in national parks, areas of outstanding natural beauty, the 881W broads and stes of special scientific interest, the conservation of the countryside, and its wildlife and cultural heritage, should be given great weight in planning policies and development control decisions. Planning Policy Guidance Note 2 states that very special circumstances are needed to justify development in the green belt.