November 21, 2014
Scotland

E.ON submits final proposal for Benbrack and Loch Urr Wind Farms

The Galloway Gazette | 20 November 2014 | www.gallowaygazette.co.uk

E.ON has today (Thursday) submitted two applications for wind farms in Dumfries and Galloway. The proposed Benbrack and Loch Urr wind farms, if constructed, will both be capable of producing over 50MW of electricity.

Benbrack is an 18 turbine site with up to 59.4 MW installed capacity, located 5km to the north east of Carsphairn and approximately 6km to the south of Dalmellington. Loch Urr is a 26 turbine, 83.2MW wind farm located 6.5km south west of Moniaive.

For both sites E.ON says it has worked closely with the respective communities and undertaken extensive consultation to understand local concerns. They added that where possible, changes have been made to reflect both community and environmental feedback including a significant reduction in turbine numbers. Loch Urr initially a 63 turbine site has been reduced to 26 turbine site and Benbrack from 27 to 18 turbines.

To give local residents the chance to see both applications, and to ask any questions they may have, E.ON is holding a Meet the Developer event on Tuesday 25 November at Dalry Town Hall from 4pm to 8pm.

Nick Taylor, Project Developer at E.ON, said: “Since we introduced our proposals for both sites we’ve undertaken extensive consultation and held a number of events to share our plans giving local people the chance to provide their views and concerns. This included public information days and exhibitions, as well as setting up a Community Liaison Group (CLG) which was key in helping us communicate with residents and community councils.

“Having also taken guidance from Scottish Natural Heritage, we removed the northern section of our Loch Urr Wind Farm plans to significantly reduce the impact on the neighbouring Moniaive and Dunscore communities. Through local and environmental consultation the size of our Benbrack site has also been reduced.

“I would like to thank everyone who provided comment on the proposals, especially members of the CLG, who have helped shape our final plans. The forthcoming Meet the Developer Day will be a great opportunity for local people to view our final proposals and ask any questions they may have.”

Anyone unable to attend the event, but interested in discussing the site should call 0800 096 1199 or email swscotland@eon.com. The updated proposals will be available on the E.ON website at www.eonenergy.com/lochurr or www.eonenergy.com/benbrack

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2014/11/21/e-on-submits-final-proposal-for-benbrack-and-loch-urr-wind-farms/