Wind turbines produce noise from various factors; the gearboxes and generators, the wind through the blades, and also low frequency infrasound.

This is quoted by Jon Boone, Ph.d as “Massive wind technology produces a relentless fusillade of pulsating sound, mechanical in pattern, audible to all and intolerable to many, particularly those sensitive to infrasound vibrations".

Infrasound vibrations have been known to cause serious health problems for people sensitive to its effects. Those living in the vicinity of turbines have been reported to have constantly suffered from headaches, sleeplessness, irritability, stress and even suicidal behaviour - it is always there, day and night. Wind farm noise has driven many people from their homes, even when living miles away from the turbines but unlike other types of major development there is no compensation.

Shadow flicker occurs when the sun passes behind the hub of the wind turbine and casts a shadow over the surrounding area, including buildings. The rotating turbine blades, which are larger than a passenger jet, cast moving shadows that cause a flickering effect; not just on homes but also through the windows themselves.

In respect of this, Volkswind's proposal states that shadow flicker will be 130 degrees either side of north and extend for 930m, this being based on now highly challenged research in 1991; it is highly likely that the effects of shadow flicker will extend far beyond what Volkswind claim and will be a major issue on households. One only has to picture how far the shadows from planes and clouds can project; the turbine blades will be the size of a large airliner!

In order to minimise on the effects of noise, infrasound and shadow flicker, Scotland recommends that turbines should not be within 2km of homes. Our government however, despite being lobbied continually on this issue, so far refuses to consider this seriously. Why? because it would prove that industrial wind farms are totally unsuitable for most parts of rural England. Many residents of Wath, Melmerby, Hutton Conyers and Sharow would be within that 2km setback, thus would suffer a significant reduction in their amenity.