September 20, 2012
Scotland

Two wind masts for turbine site

by Doug Archibald, Dumfries Standard Wednesday | www.dgstandard.co.uk 19 September 2012

A massive windfarm on the hills above Moniaive is set to come a step closer.

E.On Climate and Renewables is on the point of getting planning permission for two wind measuring masts on the site next to Loch Urr.

Despite a massive protest from windfarm opponents, planners are recommending the company get permission to put up the 80 metre anemometers for two years.

There are two separate applications before next week’s meeting of the planning applications committee. One attracted 40 objections and the other 48.

E.On are planning a massive windfarm on rough grazing land to the north and west of Loch Urr.

It could feature as many as 50 turbines as high as 127.5 metres with the promise of a 50 megawatt generating capacity.

Objectors say the masts would be an “unacceptable visual intrusion” on a natural landscape.

They claim that it would put off tourists and disturb an area rich in archaeological remains, particularly the old Edinburgh Road, the A702.

Dangerous

Opponents also suggest that the masts would be dangerous to aircraft.

The committee will be told the council archaeologist has no objections although there is a “feature”, close to the site of the southern mast, which should be avoided.

The Ministry of Defence and National Air Traffic Services have no objections.

Planners insist temporary permission for a single wind measuring mast does not set a precedent for allowing a massive turbine development.

The proposal goes before councillors on Wednesday.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2012/09/20/two-wind-masts-for-turbine-site/