Overview

This bill grants local planning authorities in England and Wales the power to set minimum distances between onshore wind turbines and homes. The aim is to give local communities more control over wind turbine placement near their residences.

Description

The Onshore Wind Turbines (Proximity of Habitation) Bill allows local authorities to define a "recommended best practice set-back distance" in their neighbourhood development plans. This distance, initially set at ten times the turbine's rotor diameter, can be adjusted by the local council after a full council debate and vote. The bill defines "habitation" to include farmhouses and clarifies that the set-back distance applies to onshore wind turbines. The bill applies to England and Wales only and will come into effect three months after passing.

Government Spending

The bill is not expected to directly increase or decrease government spending. The costs associated with implementing the new regulations would fall upon local authorities, potentially affecting their existing budgets. No specific figures are available within the provided bill text.

Groups Affected

• Local Planning Authorities: Gain new powers to influence wind turbine placement near homes within their jurisdiction.
• Residents: May experience increased or decreased restrictions on wind turbine development near their homes, depending on the decisions of their local council.
• Wind Farm Developers: May face increased planning constraints and potentially higher costs if local authorities set larger set-back distances.
• Rural Communities: Potential for both positive and negative impacts depending on local council decisions regarding wind turbine proximity.

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