Wind Farms

HC Deb 19 December 2003 vol 416 cc150-1W

Mr. Liddell-Grainger

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what planning guidelines apply to wind farms in areas of outstanding natural beauty. [145746]

Keith Hill

The current guidelines are set out in Planning Policy Guidance note 22: Renewable Energy (PPG22). Paragraphs 27 to 29 of the PPG set out the guidelines for assessing development proposals relating to all renewable energy projects in National Parks, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Broads and Sites of Special Scientific Interest. A draft revised Planning Policy Statement 22, which will replace the existing PPG22, was issued for three months consultation on 5 November.