By Graeme Strachan
Wind farm objectors have made a new year’s resolution to continue to fight
against the “attack on the Angus glens by profiteers”.
Almost 100 outraged campaigners have warned they will not go away as they
battle to defeat plans for 14 wind turbines “the size of jumbo jets” in the
picturesque Angus glens.
Chairman Mike Morris said the petition has more than 850 signatures already
and added: “Our main aim has been to raise the awareness of people to this
project and to stress to them that there is action to be taken that can
halt this scar on the landscape.
“The immediate locals are aware but still need to be reminded to act and to
object directly to the councils and not just sign a petition. As I have
stated previously, the main concerns are the immediate impact of the site
in terms of loss of visual amenity. That loss is to be taken in conjunction
with the cumulative effect of all the other existing and planned developments.
“There is then the short-term disruption of the heavyweight traffic on
rural roads and all the disruption and potential damage caused by this.”
A committee was formed last year to object to the application, which has
been lodged on the Angus and Perthshire border.
The proposed Saddle Hill wind farm almost three miles north-west of Kilry
would comprise up to 14 turbines (2mW), with a height of 377ft.
Mr Morris said the wind farm will also badly affect views on the Cateran
Trail and also impinge on the Cairngorm National Park and the munros at
Glen Clova.
He added: “Glen Isla has in the order of 900 beds and is dependent on
tourism for much of its income. In addition, there are craft centres, a
horse stables, ski hire, a taxi firm and an adventure centre.
“I have not personally met anyone who supports the proposals, though I have
heard a couple of names and we have had posters taken down.
“In a funny way, this has created a focus for people and there is a sense
of ‘all in it together’ to resist this attack on our glens by profiteers.”
Wind Prospect Developments Ltd, on behalf of EDF Energy Renewables, has
submitted a planning application to Angus Council and Perth and Kinross
Council.
Part of the site is in the Kirriemuir Landward West Community Council area
of Angus Council and part in the Alyth Community Council area of Perth and
Kinross Council.
The wind farm’s construction would take approximately 12 months.
A full environmental impact assessment was carried out during the past 18
months to consider any environmental issues over the design of the project.
Wind Prospect Developments Ltd said visual and environmental impact will be
“carefully considered” for the site, which has already been the subject of
controversial, failed wind farm bids.
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