July 10, 2008
Scotland

Turbine inquiries on the horizon

Public inquiries have been scheduled into plans for two wind farm developments in the Scottish Borders.

PM Renewables’ 22-turbine scheme on Drone Hill near Coldingham was rejected by councillors last November.

The developers have appealed against that decision and a public inquiry is set to get under way next month.

Meanwhile Windjen, which wants to build eight turbines near Dunion Hill at Jedburgh, will have its appeal against refusal heard in January 2009.

Residents near Coldingham formed an action group to protest against PM Renewables’ plans.

Scottish Borders Council subsequently rejected the scheme due to concerns about the location and the impact on tourism.

However, the company has appealed against that decision and an inquiry will now be heard by a reporter for the Scottish Government.

Windjen’s proposals were also rejected on the grounds that they were unsuitable for the landscape in the area.

Earlier this year, the council’s rejection of another wind farm in the region was overturned after a public inquiry.

It allowed plans for 10 turbines near Ashkirk to go ahead.

10 July 2008