Road delays as Glyndebourne turbine delivered
- Published
Protesters told a public inquiry the planned turbine would damage the landscape
A controversial wind turbine to power Glyndebourne Opera House is being delivered in two convoys to its site on the South Downs.
Five vehicles are carrying sections of the 70m (230ft) turbine from Purfleet in Essex, through Kent and Surrey and into Sussex via the M23 on Tuesday.
They are travelling along the A27 going through the Cuilfail tunnel on the A26 and up the B2192 towards Ringmer.
Sussex Police is hoping the loads will arrive by the afternoon rush hour.
The convoys are travelling at up to 40mph but some delays are expected and the Cuilfail tunnel may have to be closed briefly to other traffic.
Delivery postponed
Glyndebourne said it had contacted residents in Ringmer and Glynde to explain the delivery timings and route.
The convoy was originally expected on 27 September but was postponed.
"I would like to apologise to local residents for any confusion," said Glyndebourne chairman Gus Christie.
The government approved the turbine in 2008 following a public inquiry at which protesters said it would damage the landscape.
Broadcaster Sir David Attenborough was among supporters of the plan at the public inquiry.
Glyndebourne said the 900 kW turbine would produce about 90% of the electricity used by the opera house.