February 26, 2008
Scotland

Wind farm divisions go to inquiry

A public inquiry is getting under way into a Galloway hills wind farm which has deeply divided public opinion.

The investigation into Scottish and Southern Energy’s 23-turbine proposal for Blackcraig in the Glenkens is taking place at Dalry Town Hall.

Campaign group Galloway Landscape and Renewable Energy (Glare) has criticised the visual impact of the scheme.

The project has been backed by another organisation – the Glenkens Sustainable Development Steering Group (GSDSG).

The scheme has been stuck at the planning stage for almost three years.

Glare has come out against the proposal claiming that – at 360ft tall from the base to the top of the blade – the turbines would be taller than the Forth Rail Bridge.

‘Renewables strategy’

It believes the development would have an adverse effect on the landscape and tourism.

However, that is a view rejected by rival organisation GSDSG.

It wants to develop a partnership with Scottish and Southern Energy as part of a “renewables strategy” to boost the regeneration of the area.

It says blocking schemes like Blackcraig will threaten the viability of rural communities and, ultimately, facilities such as shops and post offices.

The final decision will lie with a Scottish Government reporter who is expected to hear inquiry evidence over the next three weeks.

BBC News

26 February 2008


URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2008/02/26/wind-farm-divisions-go-to-inquiry/