New planning policies could block wind power developments in most of the country, a leading green energy group has claimed.

Changes proposed by Scottish Government ministers could jeopardise progress towards green energy and climate change targets, and threaten £2 billion-worth of future investment, according to Scottish Renewables which represents the industry.

The group spoke out as a consultation on the proposals came to an end.

Measures to control the location of wind farms are included in the latest planning policies, with ministers proposing to extend the distance between such farms and cities, towns and villages.

They have also suggested no wind farms be located in the 19% of Scotland covered by national parks and National Scenic Areas.

The proposed policies are set out in the third National Planning Framework and draft Scottish Planning Policy, which will influence development plans and guide planning decisions in areas such as transport, energy and infrastructure.

Niall Stuart, chief executive of Scottish Renewables, said: “These proposals could block wind power in most of the country with worrying consequences for the industry, for communities and landowners and for the Scottish economy.

“These changes would inevitably slow down development and jeopardise progress towards our renewable energy and climate change targets.”

Anti-wind farm campaigners have already branded the proposals, which were announced in April, as disappointing.

A Scottish Government spokeswoman said: “The Scottish Government strongly supports renewable energy generation.”


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