January 29, 2013
Scotland

Shetland wind farm protesters set for court battle

By JOHN ROBERTSON | 29 January 2013 | www.scotsman.com

Opponents of one of Scotland’s biggest wind farms have taken their challenge to court.

Sustainable Shetland is trying to halt a 103-turbine farm on moorland on the islands, and is seeking a judicial review of the Scottish Government’s approval of the scheme.

The project is the third biggest in the country and will provide enough power for 175,000 homes. The government has said it will “bring enormous benefits to the people of Shetland” but campaigners are concerned over the impact on the landscape and the whimbrel, a protected migratory wading bird.

Sustainable Shetland claims ministers acted unlawfully or unreasonably in not holding a public inquiry before giving the go-ahead.

Lady Clark is due to hear several days of legal argument at the Court of Session in Edinburgh and will give her decision later.

At an earlier hearing, the protesters ensured they would avoid financial crisis if the court action failed. They secured a protective expenses order, so they would pay only a maximum of £5,000 should they be found liable for expenses to the government.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2013/01/29/shetland-wind-farm-protesters-set-for-court-battle/