March 17, 2015
Scotland

Petition against wind turbines near Culzean

Carrick Herald | 17 Mar 2015 | www.carrickherald.com

More than 1,100 people have signed a petition blasting plans for huge wind turbines towering over Culzean Castle and the Electric Brae.

Campaigners fear the Knoweside wind farm could interfere with the optical illusion at the Electric Brae, which sees tourists flock to the quiet country road.

And the energy development would also be in full view from Culzean Castle’s battlements, cannons and walled gardens according to objectors.

The proposed 132 metre structures are five times the height of the Turnberry Lighthouse.

Save Culzean.com group spokesman Alastair McLeod said: “This is not just a local problem – this is an international matter. We have significant support from around the world.

“I hope the Scottish Government won’t allow wind turbines beside three of the country’s greatest tourism assets. Culzean Castle is the most visited National Trust site in Scotland.

“The Electric Brae is also a real tourism draw and all those visitors spend money in our area.

“I know of one nearby resident who is already selling up because of the threat of the windfarm.”

Green firm Banks Renewables want to erect seven 132 metre turbines and so far the proposal has attracted widespread local backing, including support from Maybole Community Council.

The company has already undertaken widespread consultation with residents and won support from Dunure, Kirkoswald, Maidens and Turnberry community councils.

The petition is appealing to Culzean Estates owner Lord David Kennedy who is also behind the energy scheme to change his mind.

The application was already rejected in 2011 but it is about to be resubmitted to South Ayrshire Council’s planning department again.

The first bid received objections from Historic Scotland, Scottish Natural Heritage and the National Trust for Scotland. And protestors believe the organisations will stand against the fresh attempt.

Turnberry owner Donald Trump is also expected to object as the turbines will likely be seen from the elite golf course.


URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2015/03/17/petition-against-wind-turbines-near-culzean/