Judge Dismisses Wentworth Wind Concerns

A judicial review of the environmental approval to build a mega wind farm on Higgins Mountain has resulted in approval of the decision made by the provincial Minister of Environment.

The Protect Wentworth Valley Committee petitioned the review, unsatisfied that the minister gave fair weight to concerns expressed within the community.

The Honourable Justice D. Timothy Gabriel concluded the committee’s opposition was unreasonable and dismissed the case.

There was no mention of the unusual revelation that the minister originally wrote a letter turning down the proposal, only to reverse his position and give his approval just 24 hours later.

The committee continues to express its concerns, filing a letter with Cumberland County Council yesterday outlining suggestions for supervision during the construction phase and annually thereafter, to ensure compliance with the Cumberland bylaw governing wind turbines.

The local group also criticised the company’s offer of a $100,000 annual community grant. They suggest the grant should be more like $400 thousand per year and be administered by a local committee rather than the company.

The group says they will continue efforts to protect the biodiversity and unique qualities of the area for future generations.

Meanwhile, Mayor Murray Scott says council must get on with the decision, referring to next Wednesday’s council meeting which is expected to give approval of the development agreement with Higgins Mountain Wind Farm.

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