Application for planned wind turbines at Lathbury refused at DPC

It was a lengthy DPC meeting that lasted several hours.

Among the applications was a plan for wind turbines at Lathbury, which was refused. 

The wind turbine scheme was set to see forty red and white vertical wind turbines mounted on the South, East and West stadium perimeter walls – a first for Gibraltar.

The energy produced would feedback into Gibraltar’s grid.

Despite town planning recommending approval, the project was refused by the Commission, there were concerns raised by Sports Minister Leslie Bruzon that landlord GSLA did not know what the turbines would actually look like and whether the project would work.

There were also potential issues with the colour scheme, which was bright to ensure visibility to birds.

However Minister Cortes said he had ideas about where else the turbines could potentially go. 

Meanwhile, the Rock Hotel had plans for a new pool and deck approved unanimously. Designs include a wildlife corridor and green areas. Minister Cores wondered what would happen with the site of the current hotel pool – noting it would be ‘acceptable’ if it was returned to the Alameda Gardens where ‘it rightfully belongs’. 

Also approved – the demolition of derelict showrooms on Devil’s Tower Road. The date of demolition is not yet known, but the developers were urged to be mindful of bathing season and people walking to the beach. 

The commission noted there are plans for an apartment block to be built on the site that are currently awaiting planning permission - but said these were for discussion another day. 

Another project discussed - and ultimately given outline planning permission unanimously by the panel - were three townhouses at the bottom of Europa Road being demolished, and replaced with eight dwellings. Car and bike parking also featured in the plans.

The outline approval was granted with conditions related to noise management, traffic, accessibility and refuge.

Architects said the stepped back design aimed to integrate into the hillside.