SUPPORTERS of a proposed wind farm project near Dorchester have been voicing their encouragement for the scheme.

Plans have now been submitted for six turbines at Slyer’s Lane near Charminster and, while an opposition group No Slyer’s Lane Turbines has been set up, there are two groups working in support of the scheme.

West Dorset Pro Wind and Slyer’s Lane Clean Energy Group consist of local residents who are keen to see the scheme go ahead.

Spokeswoman for West Dorset Pro Wind Jeanie Averill said: “The latest government survey shows that the majority of the general public support the building of wind farms in their immediate area.

“The aim of the support groups is to encourage this silent majority to find their voice.

“It is essential that the planning officers and councillors see the whole spectrum of community opinion.”

She added: “Since the planning application for Slyer’s Lane has gone in, the group has been growing rapidly, drawing in a huge range of people each with their own reasons for supporting Slyer’s Lane.

“Slyer’s Lane is an opportunity for our community to benefit from a £24 million investment in clean, safe and secure energy.

“The six turbines in their proposed location will provide electricity equivalent to the needs of most of the homes in the Dorchester area.”

Other supporters of the scheme include mother Alex Emery from Charminster.

She said: “Having done my research, I am pleasantly surprised at how far away the turbines will be and how uninterrupted the view will be.

“We are lucky to live in quite a windy area – let’s use this free resource.”

Dr Andy Stillman from Stinsford added: “We totally support the introduction of a windfarm here, especially as we are a conservation area.

“If we don’t reduce carbon emissions there won’t be anything left to conserve.”

Charminster lollipop man and grandfather Graham Pugh said: “Personal views are irrelevant – this is what we need.

“We should not be dependent on energy from outside the country.

“I have seen turbines in so many places – why not here?

“I hope my grandchildren will be given the chance to benefit from this development.”

Fellow Charminster resident Terry Bird added: “I am concerned about the future of our grandchildren.

“We have a responsibility to look at this not just as individuals but as a community that will benefit from this investment in renewable energy.”

Judy Edwards, from Poundbury, said: “I walk my dog on both Poundbury Fort and Maiden Castle and I’m looking forward to seeing wind turbines.”