By Graeme Strachan

An Angus landmark may have to compete with wind power for prominence on the
Angus skyline, it has been claimed.

A report by Angus Council’s countryside officer Stewart Roberts has claimed
a proposed wind turbine would adversely affect the setting of Arbroath and
historic landmarks such as its abbey.

The damning report also states that the single turbine at Bairds Malt on
Elliot Industrial Estate would “dominate houses and have an overbearing
effect.”

He also warned of the potential for creating a “landscape with wind
turbines” with a number of operational or approved turbines to the west and
north west.

Bairds Malt and their construction partner Kilmac submitted an application
to Angus Council in December 2014 to develop a medium-sized turbine at
their plant on the Elliot Industrial Estate.

The proposed single turbine would be situated on the south-west corner of
their site, with a height of 55 metres to its hub and 77 metres to tip, and
would be partially screened by buildings.

Mr Roberts stated: “Arbroath Abbey is an important part of the Arbroath
skyline.

“It is not much taller than other buildings in Arbroath and is therefore
vulnerable to being out-competed by taller structures.

“Similar issues apply to the Keptie Pond Water Tower.

“The size and prominent location of the proposed turbine on the edge of
Arbroath would adversely affect the setting of Arbroath and historic
landmarks within it.”

The report said the size of the turbine, together with the prominent
location would “inevitably lead to significant visual effects.”

“Given the size and proximity of the turbine, it is likely that the turbine
would dominate houses and have an overbearing effect,” it stated.

Richard Broadbent, production and technical director of Bairds Malt, said
they were “disappointed” by the council report.

He said: “We feel the landscape officer’s response takes no recognition of
the existing industrial context of the site and the fact that the turbine
will be partially screened by the existing buildings.

“The planning recommendation for our proposal will however be shaped by an
assessment of the views of all consultees rather than on the opinion of any
single consultee.

“We remain committed to the development and believe that it will create
significant social and economic benefits for the local area.

A spokeswoman for Historic Scotland said: “Whilst we had some concerns,
they were not enough to warrant an objection to the application.”


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