Contact Energy is proposing to construct an initial Wind Farm of 50, 200m high turbines on the iconic Southland land feature of Slopedown.

The community around this area, which includes, Wyndham, Edendale, Mimihau, Mokoreta, Tuturau and Glenham, are extremely concerned that this will destroy the stunning landscape of the West Catlins and Eastern Southland. The proposed construction is also generating anxiety and mental stress on those effected.

The proposed wind farm will be visible from vast areas of Southland and Otago. This sets a dangerous precedent for other iconic landmarks to be populated with inefficient turbines. Is this something that we want to see happen? If it starts at the Catlins, where will be next? The Hokonui’s? Longwoods?

We have recently learnt that this project has been given approval for a fast tracked resource consent. This simply adds to the urgency needed to gain support against this proposal, as it will be the end of an outstanding natural landscape with other significant negative impacts on the environment.

The West Catlins Preservation Society would appreciate your support in standing up against this proposal and spreading the concern that we share.