DEVELOPERS have withdrawn plans for a 14-turbine wind farm in a Dumfries
and Galloway beauty spot following concerns it could damage an
internationally-important wildlife site.
Community Wind Power Ltd, which had planned the wind farm for an area of
moorland two-and-a-half miles north of Sanquhar now plans to amend their
proposals to try and overcome the objections.
Concerns were raised about the impact the proposals would have on wildlife
and objections were lodged by RSPB Scotland, Scottish Natural Heritage and
many concerned individuals.
The site is part of the Muirkirk and north Lowther Uplands Special
Protection Area (SPA) and is important for threatened wildlife, such as hen
harriers, peregrines and short-eared owls, say conservationists.
Scottish Natural Heritage also raised concerns that the scheme will create
a “corridor effect” where turbines would be visible on either side of
Nithsdale.
Kate Bellew, conservation planner for RSPB Scotland, said: “This is very
welcome news and absolutely the right decision.
“We have always maintained that this is a completely unsuitable place for a
wind farm due to its importance for rare species.
“The developers, Community Wind Power Ltd, deserve credit for recognising
how harmful this development would have been for wildlife and for
abandoning their plans.”
Ron Wood, managing director of Community Wind Power, said plans were
withdrawn “in order for us to undertake and complete the necessary work and
consultation to overturn and remove these consultee objections”.
The company aims to resubmit the plans.
1 Comment