THE decision to take a windfarm plan out of the hands of local democracy was criticised by East Lindsey planners.

The proposal for an eight wind turbine farm near Baumber, Wispington and Minting was heard by East Lindsey planners on Thursday who unanimously voted that they would have rejected the application if they had the jurisdiction.

Applicants Enertrag UK have already appealed to the planning inspectorate on non-determination.

The planning committee rejected the application on the landscape impact, cultural heritage, effect on flight safety systems and effect on bat habitat and these matters will now be heard at a public inquiry.

As well as 900 letters of objection, the Ministry of Defence and Natural England have now lodged their objections.

Cllr Tony Howard said: "I am disappointed it is not staying here for us to make a decision. I think when a decision of this nature is taken away from local people it is a most unfortunate situation."

For more on this story see this week's Horncastle Target, available on Wednesday, February 24.