Ranges classification plan could stymie wind farms

A proposal to classify the Tararua Ranges behind Horowhenua as an outstanding natural landscape is opening up a wind farm debate among landowners.

Under the Horowhenua District Council's proposed District Plan Change 22, wind turbines more than 65 metres tall would not get resource consent to be built in the ranges.

If the changes go through, buildings and network utilities taller than three metres would be classed as non-complying activities in the three areas identified as outstanding natural landscapes or features.

Wind farms were a hot topic at a recent information day, said David McCorkindale, project manager of the district plan review. "Several landowners in the foothill areas who attended the open day confirmed that they had already been approached by wind farm companies about using their land for wind turbines."

Proposed restrictions around new buildings and earthworks in the coastal and foothill areas also attracted attention, Mr McCorkindale said.

The change would restrict new buildings, earthworks and network utilities (electricity transmitters and wind turbines) in areas classified as outstanding natural features, outstanding natural landscapes or high amenity landscapes.

The submission closing date was extended by two weeks due to the high turnout at the information day, Mr McCorkindale said.

Anyone wanting to have their say on the changes to the District Plan have until Friday, November 6 to lodge their submission with the council. Details and documents about the Proposed Plan Change 22 can be viewed on the council's www.horowhenua.govt.nz website.