The Department of Planning’s Executive Director of Major Project Assessment, Chris Wilson said the project involves the construction of nine turbines, a substation, control room and associated access roads on existing farming properties that will continue to be used for sheep and cattle grazing.

“The Black Springs Wind Farm is consistent with State Plan priorities for a reliable electricity supply with increased use of renewable energy,” Mr Wilson said.

“After consideration of various locations in NSW, the site in the Oberon local government area was selected by the applicant due to sufficient local energy demand, suitable wind conditions and available infrastructure.

“The project will generate 32 construction stage jobs and one full-time operational position, and potentially fuel investment in the local area.

“Its greenhouse gas savings will be equivalent of taking around 10,000 cars off the road.”

After an extended exhibition period of six weeks, 100 submissions were received by the Department raising issues including visual impacts, noise impacts, potential alterations to aircraft movements and effects on land values.

Following a meeting with the Minister for Planning and representatives of the local community in October 2007, the Department sought independent advice in relation to operational noise and visual impact issues.

Independent noise experts found that noise goals could be achieved with the help of appropriate management and mitigation measures, including restricting the use of a turbine.

Independent visual experts found that overall the landscape was able to accommodate any changes resulting from the windfarm. The recommendations resulting from the assessment have been incorporated into the Minister’s conditions, which include:

- The imposition of strict noise limits for project operation, including the restricted use of Turbine 1 depending on wind conditions;