Precedent setting decision stops wind turbine construction

TORONTO, Dec. 12, 2013 /CNW/ - The Environmental Review Tribunal of Ontario has ordered a stay preventing the construction of two industrial wind turbines in Wainfleet, Ontario.

The motion, decided by Executive Chair Lynda Tanaka who oversees the ERT, OMB and three other tribunals, temporarily stops the construction of two turbine towers during the appeal of the Ministry of the Environment's approval of the project. The Appellants, Skydive Burnaby Inc. and the company's co-owner Mikel Pitt, argue the turbines are too close to their skydiving school.

"We're so relieved," said Pitt, "This project is a real threat to our business and the Tribunal appears to have recognized that at this early stage."

The Appellants' lawyer, Eric Gillespie, has argued a number of Industrial Wind Turbine appeals in Ontario.  Gillespie said, "this is a precedent setting decision, it's the first time a stay has been ordered during a Renewable Energy Approval appeal. We're very pleased for our clients."

Gillespie's associate, lawyer Ian Flett remarked, "the Tribunal gave all the parties a fair opportunity to make our cases, we're happy with the result".

The hearing of the main appeal is scheduled to begin January 6, 2014 in Wainfleet, Ontario.

SOURCE: Eric K. Gillespie Professional Corporation

Ian Flett at 416-703-7034 or [email protected]