February 1, 2013
Scotland

Carrach appeal is dismissed

Kirriemuir Herald | 31 January 2013 | www.kirriemuirherald.co.uk

An appeal against the refusal of permission for Carrach Wind Farm has been dismissed.

A Scottish Government reporter was appointed to determine the appeal lodged by developers after the initial plan was dismissed by the local authority last August.

The plans were for the erection of nine 800kw wind turbines, 84metres to tip, with associated infrastructure at land at the Welton and Kinclune Hills, Kingoldrum.

Permission was refused in the first instance as the development would result in unacceptable adverse landscape impacts on the character and setting of the wider area.

It would also have an “unacceptable visual impact” on those who live nearby.

Now the Scottish Government has thrown out the plans entirely.

In a report submitted to Angus Council, the Government reporter said: “The proposal would have an unacceptable landscape impact in the locality and a detrimental effect on residential amenity, to the extent that it would not comply with the requirements of the planning policies.

“Implications for most other matters, including safe road access during construction, shadow flicker noise, reflected light and ecology are likely to be acceptable.”

The report continued: “I note that the proposal would make a contribution to the provision of energy from renewable sources, with a consequential reduction in harmful emissions.

“It would also make a contribution to the local economy during the construction period, and to some extent during operation…

“These benefits to the local economy would be offset to some extent if the presence of the wind farm deters some people from visiting this locality for tourist and recreation purposes.”

The report concluded that on balance with the serious long-term visual impact on the area, and the “modest” contribution made to renewable energy targets, the short-term benefits “do not justify a departure from planning polocies.”

The initial plans submitted to Angus Council receieved around 60 representations of support.

These were mainly based on the contribution that would be made to renewable energy supplies, a local community fund and the two farms involved.

Eric Lowson, director of infrastructure services, said: “Supporters contend that there would be no significant adverse effects on the landscape, wildlife, and local tourism and recreation interests.”

However, the local authority also received a similar number opposing the project.

Mr Lowson said: “The main matters of concern are landscape. visual and residential amenity impacts, noise and shadow flicker, adverse effect on tourism, effects on the local economy, the impact on a neary listed building [Balintore Castle] and concern over wildlife and construction traffic.”

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2013/02/01/carrach-appeal-is-dismissed/