Homeowners living near a proposed wind turbine site in Marden could see the value of their properties plummet if it is built, a landmark court ruling has revealed.
Jane Davis, from Lincolnshire, applied for a discount in her council tax on her £170,000 house because of a turbine 1,000 metres away, which was granted by a court, Yourmaidstone reports.
During the hearing last week estate agents said no one is likely to buy the home should it go up for sale because of the turbine.
The ruling has been seen by the property market as an “effective admission” that wind farms – often accused of spoiling views and creating annoying roaring noises – have a negative effect on house prices.
This will send shockwaves through the Weald community due to plans to put a 127-metre tall turbine on land to the south of Sheephurst Lane in Marden.
The proposal has attracted widespread opposition in the village as the towering structure will be about 500 metres away from homes.
Members of Kent Weald Action Group also fear the developers Wind Direct will not stop at one turbine, saying “many more will follow”.
This could see the value of homes - already being hit by the property slump – tumble further.
After the landmark court decision Mrs Davis has started to campaign to make people aware of the threat posed by the turbines to properties.
She said: “There are many, many people living in Middle England who have worked hard all their lives and yet will see the value of their homes suddenly diminish.”
POSTED: 06/08/2008 09:00:00
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