June 25, 2014
Scotland

Plans for Pinwherry windfarm blown away

Carrick Herald | 25 Jun 2014 | www.carrickherald.com

Plans to erect a windfarm in Pinwherry were blown away by planning chiefs last week.

The proposals, which would have seen nine wind turbines erected alongside a 60 metre wind anemometer mast, two borrow pits and a switchgear house, were planned for the Breaker Hill area, south of Girvan and north east of Colmonell.

Breaker Hill is defined as a ‘scenic area’ by the South Ayrshire Local Plan, with the site of the proposed farm located along a plateau between the peaks of Knockdaw Hill, Craig Hill and peaking at Breaker Hill.

Around half a dozen objectors entered County Buildings to voice their objections to the proposals, with 262 objections registered against the application throughout the process, although 201 letters were received in support.

Rory Carmichael, who represented the applicants Wind Prospect said: “Changes to the landscape are often an area of concern amongst the consultees.

“Breaker Hill is located in the boarder part of this landscape area. This containment ensures that the turbines would not be visible from Pinmore.

“The project would generate enough electricity for 3,800 homes. The proposal also offers a range of local benefits. The construction of the windfarm would support six jobs in South Ayrshire and 40 in Scotland.”

Roger Pirrie, Chair of the Pinwhirry and Pinmore Community Council spoke in objection.

“We’ve been here before with an application for Breaker Hill and we see nothing that should change the panel’s decision.

“It would brutally change an area which has for hundreds of years been an area of various landscapes and flora and fauna. If the applicant had taken note of this they would not be back for a second pop at Breaker Hill.

“It’s a pity they’ve not listened to the views of the local community,” he said.

The proposal was rejected on grounds including that it would have adverse effects on tourism, leisure interests and communities.

Councillor Ann Galbraith added: “I’m horrified at this relentless march towards windfarms in this particular area of South Ayrshire. It’s an horrendous proposal.

“There’s very few people who support this live round about.”

And Councillor Hugh Hunter also voiced his displeasure, adding: “There are some applications which should never see the light of day and this looks like one.”

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2014/06/25/plans-for-pinwherry-windfarm-blown-away/