Stop Turbines In North Cornwall

"Dear Sir / Madam

2007/01497 Land at Titchbarrow, Davidstow. Wind energy development comprising the erection of four wind turbines, access tracks, hard standing areas, etc.

We have the following comments to make on the above application.

The Proposed Development Site

The development of the four wind turbines and associated structures, access tracks and areas of hard standing lie immediately to the east of a large number of prehistoric barrows significance (PRNs 2228.1, 2228.2, 2228.3, 2230.1, 2230.2, 2230.3, 103914), recorded in the County Council’s Historic Environment Record (see attached map). Six of the barrows are also protected as Scheduled Ancient Monuments as they are deemed of national significance. Other features in the near locality include possible post-medieval animal enclosures (PRN 57255).

It is therefore highly likely that below-ground archaeological remains may be encountered in the area of the proposed development.

Policy Context

It is Government, County Council and North Cornwall District Council policy that the historic environment is taken into account in the planning process. Policy ENV 14 of North Cornwall District Council’s Local Plan states:

1. Development proposals affecting nationally important remains, whether scheduled or not, and their settings, will not be permitted unless:

(a) there will be no significant damage to, or adverse effect on, a site or its setting; and

(b) the development can be controlled through the use of conditions or planning obligations to ensure the remains to ensure the remains are preserved in-situ.

2. Development proposals which adversely affect locally important archaeological sites or remains identified as a result of a prior archaeological investigation will only be permitted where:

(a) physical preservation in-situ is not feasible in conjunction with the proposed development and the importance of the development clearly outweighs the case for preservation of the remains; and

(b) satisfactory arrangements are made for the investigation and recording of the remains before or during development.

Recommendations

We recommend that if, North Cornwall District Council, is minded to approve this application, it should ensure that an archaeological recording condition is attached to the consent. PPG16 recommends including words to the effect:

No development shall take place within the site until the applicant has secured and implemented a programme of archaeological work in accordance with a written scheme of investigation to be submitted by the applicant and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority in consultation with the County Archaeologist.

Appropriate works could include a geophysical survey of the affected areas and a watching brief.

Due to the proposed location for the wind turbines close to the six burial mounds, we would suggest that English Heritage are contacted so that they can also give a view of the impact of the proposal on the setting of these monuments.

I hope this is of assistance, please do contact me if anything is unclear or further discussion is required.

Yours sincerely
Phil Markham
Historic Environment Planning Advice Officer
Historic Environment Service "