A PROPOSAL for a 77-metre tall wind turbine on the outskirts of Pelynt has been rejected by planners because of the harm it would do to the nearby area of outstanding natural beauty.

Somerset-based Murex Energy had applied for permission to erect the turbine along with associated buildings and an access track on land at Woodford Farm and planning officials had recommended to Cornwall Council's East Area Planning Sub-committee that it grant delegated approval for the scheme.

A report to the committee stated that while there were benefits from the proposal in the form of wind generation of power and its contribution to the viability of the farm, it would cause a moderate degree of 'temporary and reversible' harm to the landscape generally, and the scenic beauty of the area of outstanding natural beauty and heritage coast, as well as less than substantial harm to the setting of the Church of St Nonna, Pelynt, and Boconnoc park and garden.

However, it continued, the National Planning Framework suggested such a proposal should be approved if its impacts were, or could be made acceptable.

'That clearly allows for a degree of harm to be accommodated in order for the benefits of renewable energy to be realised,' said the report

The application attracted more than 30 letters of objection, many of which pointed out the proximity of the site to the area of outstanding natural beauty whose boundary is just over a mile from the site.

The views of objectors were echoed by members of the committee who voted by a majority to refuse the application.

The applicants are understood to be considering an appeal against the decision.