To ask the Minister for Infrastructure in relation to planning decisions, to detail (i) the acknowledged detrimental effects of windfarms on residents living within an (a) five-mile; and (b) ten-mile radius; and (ii) the results of any research that has been carried out regarding noise pollution created by windfarms.

The impacts of windfarms on residents living within an (a) five-mile; and (b) ten-mile radius will vary from proposal to proposal. However, I can advise that each planning application for a wind farm is assessed on its own merits. In most cases such applications are accompanied by an Environmental Statement which addresses the likely significant effects of the wind farm on sensitive receptors and the wider environment. These impacts are assessed against the relevant local area plan and planning policies before the determining authority reaches a decision on the planning application.

My Department is unaware of research results regarding noise pollution created by windfarms in NI.