October 15, 2012
Scotland

Kinloch turbines are rejected 8-2 by councillors

Buchan Observer | 15 October 2012 | www.buchanobserver.co.uk

Plans for the erection of two wind turbines at Kinloch, St Fergus, have been rejected by councillors.

The decision was made at last week’s meeting of the Buchan Area Committee at Peterhead’s Arbuthnot House.

The committee heard that the Ministry of Defence raised objections to the proposed turbines, measuring 79.6m in height, due to concerns about interference with radar equipment at RAF Buchan. The committee was also told the applicants tried to resolve the MoD’s concerns, but the MoD maintained their opposition to the plans.

Councillors were informed of recent turbine developments, including the erection of three turbines at Bruxley Hill.

Planning officer Wendy Forbes told the committee that a Planning Service Assessment would be required if approval was granted.

At the meeting, applicant Mr Chapman stated that the cumulative effect of the addition of two new turbines on RAF radar equipment would be insignificant.

He commented: “Our development is indistinguishable to what is already there. The MoD needs to be held to account.”

Mr Chapman said that the MoD had acted in a “high-handed and dismissive” manner in its approach to the development.

Councillor Alan Gardiner asked Mr Chapman about the role of MoD consultants, Kinetic. Mr Chapman replied: “Kinetic are there only to lay out the facts. The MoD have not looked at our case in as much detail as we have.”

During the question and answer session, Councillor Alan Buchan stated that he supported the MoD’s views and believed the application should be rejected.

However, Councillor Stephen Smith stated that the MoD had not addressed the specifics of the proposed development.

Following the debate, the committee rejected the planning application by 8-2 votes.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2012/10/15/kinloch-turbines-are-rejected-8-2-by-councillors/