February 1, 2013
Scotland

Couple’s plan for turbines

Press and Journal, Thursday 31st January 2013

Developers behind a potential Donside wind turbines scheme say their farm diversification would be barely visible in the beauty spot area, and a potential cash boon to local causes.

Kemnay couple Steven and Michelle Clark are seeking planning permission for a wind speed testing anemometer mast on their 118 acres at Cornabo, overlooking the scenic Lord’s Throat and across the River Don from Bennachie hill.

More than 50 objections to the temporary structure has been sent to Aberdeenshire planners. Protestors say the application should be “killed stone dead” at the earliest stage and before a windfarm proposal is even submitted.

Yesterday Mr Clark, 49, said if the wind speeds proved suitable, it was planned to apply for three turbines on the rural site.

He added: “Should they go ahead, the wind turbines would not be near the skyline but down the slope of the hillside, well screened by trees, and anyone looking across would really have to strain to see them.”

He said that extensive environmental surveys and discussions had been carried out with planners over the past 18 months to select an appropriate site which has been assessed from all viewpoints.

The trio of turbines could contribute £25,000 a year to local causes. Monymusk football team, Kemnay scouts and the Garioch Gymnastics group were among those he hoped would benefit.

“Money from the turbines would also provide valuable funding to upgrade the road up to Cornabo, as well as maintaining and extending the farm buildings and that all provides more employment,” he said.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2013/02/01/couples-plan-for-turbines/