A proposed wind farm that received nearly 5000 objections and was opposed
by two Ayrshire councils has been approved in a shock decision by the
Scottish Government.
This week anti wind-farm campaigners were calling it a betrayal and say
they are disgusted by the decision.
Last week it was revealed Scottish Ministers consented to Scottish Power’s
23-turbine plans just west of Dalmellington at Dersalloch Hill.
They had made the final decision despite objections by planners and
councillors from East and South Ayrshire.
It is the second time in a number of months that ministers have ignored EAC
after making a similar call about Hillhouse’s plans for a quarry in Muirkirk.
Objectors had cited the effect on the Dark Skies Park around Loch Doon as
one viable reason for refusal.
And Mark Gibson, the chairman of its board of Trustees and owner of
Craigengillan Estate, said: “I think everybody is disgusted with this
decision. The Scottish Government have refused to listen to the public.
“This is a complete betrayal of our area. There were 4800 objections to
this and 23 letters of support. But they have disregarded this.”
The fear now for the campaigners is that the proposed 50-turbine South Kyle
site will also be approved by Scottish Ministers.
East Ayrshire Council’s Chris McAleavey, Acting Executive Director of
Neighbourhood Services said:“As the neighbouring planning authority, East
Ayrshire Council objected to this application, but we note the Scottish
Ministers’ decision to grant permission.”
Lesley Bloomer, South Ayrshire Council’s Executive Director – Economy,
Neighbourhood and Environment, added: “We are aware the Scottish Government
has granted consent for the Dersalloch windfarm and are actively
considering any implications for the Council.”
An extension to the existing Clyde wind farm, located to the east of
Abington, was also granted.
Energy Minister Fergus Ewing said: “These two wind farms will create jobs
both in their construction, and during their lifetime. Once they are up and
running, the wind farms will save thousands of tonnes of carbon dioxide
each year, and will be able to produce enough electricity to power
thousands of homes.
“The Dersalloch wind farm and the Clyde Extension will create around £28.8
million during its lifetime – a remarkable amount for the local communities.
“As well as bringing benefits to the local community, the Clyde Extension
will also benefit the wider region through the provision of a Local
Community Fund.
“The community packages that have been offered by both these developers
will bring considerable benefits to the local communities.
“Scotland is already providing over a third of the UK’s renewable
electricity generation and helping to keep the lights on across our islands
at a time where there is an increasingly tight gap between electricity
supply and demand.”
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