March 23, 2011
Scotland

Blackcraig and Black Law wind farm bids approved

BBC News, www.bbc.co.uk 22 March 2011

Two wind farm plans which caused concerns about their potential effect on radar systems have been approved by the Scottish government.

They will see 23 turbines built at Blackcraig in the Galloway hills and an extension of the same size at Black Law in North Lanarkshire and West Lothian.

Both schemes saw concerns raised about the potential impact on radar.

The Scottish government said those had been addressed and the schemes could help meet renewable energy targets.

The Dumfries and Galloway scheme, proposed by Scottish and Southern Energy, was the subject of a lengthy public inquiry.

Opponents claimed the location and scale of the project would damage both the landscape and tourism.

However, supporters said the scheme could be part of a strategy to support the wider regeneration of the whole Glenkens area.

The Black Law wind farm was approved in 2004 and is currently operational.

In January 2008, ScottishPower Renewables (UK) applied to extend it into North Lanarkshire and West Lothian.

Public objections were received and concerns were raised about radar impact.

However, the Scottish government said talks between aviation authorities and the company had produced a “mitigation solution”.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2011/03/23/blackcraig-and-black-law-wind-farm-bids-approved/