Equipment at a wind turbine construction site north of Chatham. (Photo courtesy of Water Wells First)Equipment at a wind turbine construction site north of Chatham. (Photo courtesy of Water Wells First)
Chatham

CK Court Ruling Could Allow Lawful Protests

An injunction hearing to stop Water Wells First blockades at North Kent Wind sites will continue next week.

Justice Kirk Monroe says he'll have a decision on Monday at 2pm.

He doesn't want to stop lawful protests or freedom of expression but says he has lots to ponder, including stronger language surrounding intimidation and harassment before he issues a court order.

Mark MacKew, lawyer for Water Wells First spokesperson Kevin Jakubec, says "the group has reached an agreement with North Kent Wind to protest lawfully and not interfere with the wind turbines."

If approved, only lawful protests will be allowed at any of the 34 wind turbine sites.

Jim Bunting, lawyer for North Kent Wind, says "tensions remain high and he fears that vandalism will continue."

He told the hearing that Water Wells First members have trespassed, threatened North Kent Wind officials, smashed a truck window, and vandalized a crane.

Bunting adds violence is possible.

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