Paul Colman
Planning Officer
Neath Port Talbot Council
The Quays
Port Talbot
SA11 2GG

Re: Planning Application P2015/0187 Wind Turbine at Mynydd Drummau

Dear Sir

I want to make a formal objection to the above planning application on the following grounds.

Visual Impact

The proposed turbine would dominate the skyline and would be visible for a significant distance from many areas of Neath and its surrounding communities.

The turbine will dramatically alter the landscape character of the area.

Energy Output

The limited output of this turbine does not mitigate the heavy social, environmental and economic losses to local communities.

Access to the site and impact on the natural environment.

The route leading to the proposed turbine site is an extremely difficult one, and poses huge problems in negotiating severe turns in several narrow places.  It also travels through Cadoxton where there is a weight restriction on the main road.  The turbine would exceed this weight limit whilst being transported.

The people of this area contributed thousands of pounds to enable the Woodland Trust to purchase the land on the flanks of the mountain to enjoy its tranquility and scenic beauty. This land would be changed forever with the necessary access road.

At a time when there are many health concerns among all ages of the population and a drive to get people exercising and enjoying the outdoors, here we have a woodland and mountain top area that is free to access, enabling people to gain huge health benefits.

Drummau Mountain has long been valued by local people, and visitors from all over the world, for the tranquility and the feeling of remoteness it has offered whilst in close proximity to a densely populated area.  It is hoped that this will remain so for generations to come.

Yours faithfully