March 1, 2007
U.K.

Residents to fight plan for windfarm

Developers behind a Donside windfarm project last night claimed that a two-day display in the community has proved “positive and worthwhile”.

But local critics pledged to continue opposing the scheme.

As Perth-based npower renewables completed its face-to-face sessions in Lumsden village hall with residents, a spokesman for Kildrummy Windfarm Action Group (KWAG) labelled the eight turbines a needless blot on the scenic area.

“Having talked to the npower renewables team and discussed plans and displays, I think the single most damning issue is the impact this project would have on the natural landscape,” said Douglas Williamson, KWAG secretary and local farmer.

“The proposed windfarm will be within three kilometres (1.8 miles) of the Cairngorm National Park boundary, and all eight turbines will be clearly visible to walkers on the summit level of the Glenbuchat hills.

“I find that unacceptable and I am sure many others will be unhappy with such an intrusive development.”

Mr Williamson also raised local concerns over the possible impact and potential pollution risk to the watertable.

“I was slightly reassured over certain issues, but not sufficiently to change my opposition to the plans,” he said. “The windfarm is simply inappropriate in this location and I anticipate there will still be significant objection to the new proposals.”

Npower last year dropped plans for 11 turbines between Lumsden and Mossat, which sparked 200 letters of objection. Both the scale and size of the new proposals for Clashnarae Hill on Kildrummy Estates land have been reduced in an application to Aberdeenshire Council.

The firm’s project manager, Mark Crawford, said last night: “I think the exhibition exercise at Lumsden has been very worthwhile and encouraging.”

Mr Crawford said he was optimistic the scheme will go ahead after speaking to more than 50 people, including community and local councillors in the 3-9pm sessions.

By Alistair Beaton

thisisnorthscotland.co.uk

23 February 2007


URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2007/03/01/residents-to-fight-plan-for-windfarm-2/