MARCH HYWEL PROTECTION GROUP (MHPG)

 

NEWSLETTER - OCTOBER 2014

 

• Thanks to everyone who has become a member of MHPG, both since we started the campaign in 2006, and more recently as the planning application by RES Ltd. to site 5 wind turbines on Mynydd March Hywel has gone to appeal by Public Inquiry.

 

• The planning appeal hearing date has been confirmed as Tuesday 9^th December 2014 at Neath Civic Centre, starting at 10:00. The hearing is scheduled to last for 6 days. Please make every effort to attend on day 1 in order to demonstrate the extent of community opposition to this proposed development.

 

• Members of the community may present evidence against the planned development on March Hywel, either individually or as part of MHPG’s Statement of Case. For the latter, evidence such as photos and written memories of March Hywel, what it means to you and how any wind turbines would adversely affect your views, business, recreation or enjoyment need to be submitted to Simon Boex by 03/11/14.

 

• To date, MHPG has raised over £15,000 from membership and donations. The active/core members continue to meet regularly, usually on Tuesday evenings at Rhos Community Centre at 7pm. Please check with Simon if you wish to join these meetings, as they are not held every week.

 

• A number of organisations have also made donations to MHPG, including Rhos Community Council, Blaenhonddan Community Council and Bryncoch Environmental Group.

 

• Three Public meetings were organised by MHPG at Crynant, Waunceirch and Rhos Community Centres in late September/early October 2014 to raise awareness. These have led to an increase in MHPG membership and donations, but additional funds are still required.

 

• A barrister and a landscape architect, who have previously won cases for other communities opposing wind farms across the UK, have been commissioned to undertake work for MHPG to strengthen our case against the appeal. The money raised so far will not be sufficient to fund professional representation of MHPG by the barrister at the appeal hearing; hence we are trying to find ways to raise as much funding as possible. Any ideas are welcome, as are further donations.

 

• A Sponsored walk up March Hywel, to raise funds for MHPG, will take place on Sunday 23^rd November 2014. Meet at 10:00 am at the top of Primrose Lane, Rhos. Parts of the route can be boggy/muddy after wet weather and it can be cold/windy at the top - walking boots, wellies or stout shoes are recommended, as are warm clothes and a waterproof jacket. The walk will be led by MHPG members who regularly walk the route. It is not too difficult for those of average fitness, and should take approx. 3-4 hours in total. On a clear day the views are magnificent. Please bring your own packed lunch. All are welcome including well behaved dogs (must be kept on leads). Please contact Simon Boex, MHPG Chair, for sponsorship forms.

 

Chair:              Simon Boex Tel: 01792 865606	Secretary:  Sandra Jones
Email: marchhywelprotectiongroup@gmail.com	Treasurer:  Melanie Carne