Flurry of windfarm applications up for approval
Eleven wind turbines could be erected at six different locations in rural Aberdeenshire if councillors approve a series of separate applications on Tuesday.
Members of the local authority’s Formartine area committee will consider two applications for three turbines, one for a pair and three for single ones.
All but one of the proposals has already won the backing of council planners. The most controversial of the applications is from Broadview Energy Developments, for three 338ft turbines at Hill of Fiddes, Udny, Ellon. It has attracted 12 objections and 23 letters of support.
The proposed development, almost four miles south of Ellon, would cost about £8million and create 40 jobs. It is predicted to produce enough electricity to power 3,700 homes.
In a report to committee members, head of development management and building standards, Raymond Reid, supports the plans. He says the proposals would not adversely impact the character of the area and says the application is consistent with council policies.
Objectors claim there would be issues concerning noise and fear the development could badly affect tourism and the value of property in the area.
The five other applications relate to developments in Courtston, Denhill and Haddo near Methlick, Gairnieston Farm, Turriff and Cairnhill Farm, near Turriff.
Gillian Bishop, media spokeswoman for Views of Scotland, said: “The worry that we have, and it’s happening all over Scotland, is that small sites are being approved then two or three years later, along comes an application to extend it.
“So what starts off as a little site might not end up as a little site. It’s quite easy for the developers.”
By Emma Christie
15 March 2008
Tags: Wind power, Wind energy
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