Victory for residents as two turbine plans are thrown out – Press and Journal

By Joshua King

A contentious wind turbine project which split a north-east community was
on the brink of collapse last night after councillors threw out a
landowner’s proposals.

Banffshire farmer James Gammie had applied to build three turbines on
neighbouring plots of land, claiming they would give a much-needed economic
boost to the local community.

But despite receiving more than 500 letters and e-mails of support for Mr
Gammie’s plans, members of the Banff and Buchan Area Committee ruled out
the construction of two turbines amid heated exchanges with residents.

A decision on the third turbine was deferred and councillors will now visit
the site to the south-west of Banff on a fact-finding mission.

Alongside letters of support, Aberdeenshire Council planning chiefs also
received more than 225 objections from residents who argued there are
already too many turbines in the Banffshire countryside.

Concerns were also raised about noise pollution, house prices, tourism and
shadow flicker.

In a report to the committee, planning officers called for refusal of Mr
Gammie’s turbine plans.

Yesterday Mr Gammie told the committee that: “The people who know the area
best are those who are in a three-mile radius, and in particular those in a
one-mile radius and we have their overwhelming support.

“This community project will also contribute considerably to climate change
objectives.”

But the applicant’s appeal to the councillors was quickly rebutted by local
objectors.

One, Mrs Edna Gardner, said: “Two of those turbines will face the front of
my property less than 600 yards away.

“With carbuncles like these on the horizon, what tourist would visit our area?”

Neighbouring resident Jane Patterson added: “The 500 letters of support put
to the council are pro forma letters put out by Mr Gammie himself.

“Public consultation should be carried out by a third party – no pressure
should be put on people.”

An Aberdeenshire Council legal officer stressed to the elected
representatives that pro forma or blanket letters of support of objections
are acceptable but that councilors must weigh their significance.

Mr Gammie did not deny circulating blanket letters for residents to sign.

Conservative councillor for Banff and District Michael Roy pushed to accept
the recommendation to throw out the plans, stating: “These turbines are
contrary to Scottish planning policy and Aberdeenshire planning policy and
should be rejected.”

Councillors will visit the third turbine later this year.