GOLDWIND, the developers for the Gullen Range wind farm use two types of turbines, one of which will exceed specified noise at some locations.
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At sites where this will occur, Goldwind will be required to enter into a "noise agreement" with the impacted landholder — which is stated under the conditions imposed for the development.
The State Minister for Planning, Mr. Brad Hazzard, explained this in a letter received at the last Council meeting.
His letter was in reply to representations made by the Council and by local Member Katrina Hodgkinson.
Mr. Hazzard stated that the two types of turbines will be a "relatively quieter" 1.5mw, and a 2.5 mw.
"Both are consistent with the approval," Mr. Hazzard said.
However, Goldwind itself had identified that the larger turbine may exceed specified noise criteria at some sits within the approval, and would have to negotiate agreements at these.
Goldwin has already approached a number of landholders to discuss agreements, and the Minister advised that if the landholder rejects the offer, Goldwind will be required to install the quieter turbine and comply with the noise criteria.
Council had also queried changes Goldwind planned for the turbines, to which Mr. Hazzard replied that the developer had assured the Department the size will be consistent with the approved plan.
The Minister continued: 'Notwithstanding, if the proponent wishes to install a larger turbine which is inconsistent with the approval, the proponent will be required to formally submit an application with the Department to modify the project approval."
