Kemptown MP calls for Rampion rethink

Energy Secretary asked to revisit the decision to allow a wind farm off the coast of Sussex.

Simon Kirby, MP for Brighton Kemptown and Peacehaven, has written to the Energy Secretary, Rt Hon Edward Davey MP, asking him to look again at the recent decision to allow the development of the Rampion wind farm off the coast of Sussex.

Mr Kirby wrote to the Secretary of State following concerns put to him by a number of constituents about possible impacts on the local area.

These concerns include:

· The impact on local wildlife. There is a great deal of concern that birds may be killed by the turbines.

· Visual intrusion from the land to the sea. With scores of turbines the view that local people have from the coast to the sea will be irrevocably changed.

· The level of subsidies. The cost of the turbines could add significantly to the cost of electricity bills.

· From the sea, the view of the cliffs will be changed. Many people are worried that the historic view of the Sussex coastline will be spoiled by the installation of turbines.

· Independent bodies such as conservation groups have attacked this decision, expressing concerns about tourism for the area.

Simon said: “This is a matter of deep concern to many of my constituents. I hope the Secretary of State will look again at this decision, which has many long-term implications for the area.”