August 29, 2012
Scotland

Visual impact will be “muted”

Brechin Advertiser | www.brechinadvertiser.co.uk 29 August 2012

Eurowind, the developers behind the Nathro Hill Wind Farm project, have hit back at claims some objectors have made about the effects the proposed 17 turbine wind farm could have on the surrounding area.

Ian Lindsay, Director of Eurowind, said, “We are disappointed that a number of inaccuracies are clouding what should be an informed debate about the wind farm.

“For example some objectors are ignoring the detailed evidence on birds and transport impacts. We also wish to address specific inaccuracies regarding impact on the River South Esk which the wind farm site does not drain into and will not be affected. We are happy to be scrutinised on any aspect of the project, but it needs to be based on facts and evidence.

“The Environmental Impact Assessment is rigorous and presents strong conclusions about the lack of impact on the local ecology or bird life. We have yet to see a proper challenge to the information presented in it.”

The company has responded in particular to comments made about the impact on Golden Eagles, fisheries, and transport issues, alongside claims made that community benefit commitments from Eurowind will not be delivered.

Ahead of this week’s Scottish Government consultation deadline on the wind farm planning application today (Wednesday), Ian Lindsay added: “People often object to wind farms as they are going to be close to housing, but this site is high up in the hills, set well back from housing and tourism, with a good grid connection which does not require new pylons.

“Whilst the turbines are on a ridge line, the visual impact will be muted because of the distances involved, and absorbed by the scale of the landscape. Eurowind have put an enormous amount of work into ensuring the turbines “sit” well in the landscape and have reduced the turbine numbers from 21 to 17, specifically to address this issue. The wind farm will make use of existing hill tracks and will not interfere with other activities such as farming, grouse shooting or walking.”

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2012/08/29/visual-impact-will-be-muted/