Lochluichart windfarm approved
The Scottish Government has given final approval to a 17 turbine windfarm at Lochluichart between Achnasheen and Garve.
The Mountaineering Council of Scotland was one of the bodies who objected to the proposal on the grounds that the turbines would be visible over a wide area and therefore spoil a wild but popular area and due to the likely adverse effects on wildlife, biodiversity, and the disturbance of large amounts of peat currently acting as a carbon store. The MCofS said in their submission that, “the proposed wind farm would be visible from a large number of hills, including the popular Munros of An Teallach, Beinn Dearg, Slioch, Beinn Eighe, Ben Wyvis and Sgurr Mor (Fannaichs), and a variety of other hills in the surrounding area. It would thus adversely impact on the views from a wide variety of hills that are popular with an increasing number of walkers and climbers, many of whom visit the area from outwith Scotland.”
Energy Minister Jim Mather, who also has responsibility for tourism, said the project would help Scotland meet renewable power targets. He commented that, “This is exactly the type of project we need to drive our renewables ambitions for Scotland.”
December 29th, 2008 at 10:38 am
The approval of this project is a disgrace and yet another blow to Scotland’s scenic landscapes. I have experienced this on my doorstep in the Ochils, where wind farms now blight once uninterrupted and unsullied views. However, those of us who oppose these developments must continue to make our views known to those in authority.
For those unaware of this, a European body dedicated to wind farm opposition has recently been formed. Its aim is to band together groups of a similar nature within Europe.
December 31st, 2008 at 4:33 pm
another nail in the coffin of what was once the finest country in the world. Thanks, Mr Mather!
Incidentally, what’s the current average load of windfarms up and down the country in the present ridge of high pressure with temperatures down to -13C and not a breath of air around?
January 5th, 2009 at 4:42 am
Sorry but I can’t see any harm in it whatsoever. I think avoidance of climate change is far more important than subjective opinions of ‘the view’. Also, climate change is set to wreak far more havoc on our ‘views’ and our outdoor fun than the sight of a few elegant turbines.