Bid to build seven wind turbines near Lauder scuppered
By Andrew Keddie
Councillors will be told next week that plans for seven 110-metre high
turbines on land to the west of Muircleuch between Blainslie and Lauder
Common have finally been scuppered.
Back in March, Scottish Borders Council’s planning committee refused
consent, judging that the development, taken along with turbines currently
operating in the area, would have an unacceptable impact on the landscape
and be visible from notable landmarks like Thirlestane Castle and the
Eildon Hills.
Applicants Airvolution Energy Ltd appealed, claiming the council had
overstated the negative impact and stressing that the wind farm would make
a “significant contribution” to meeting Scotland’s renewable energy targets.
However, Reporter Michael Cunliffe, after visiting the site, concluded last
month that the council was right to reject the application.
“He does not consider the renewable energy benefits are sufficient to
outweigh the adverse impacts on the landscape, visual receptors and
recreations,” states the determination which will be presented to Monday’s
SBC planning committee meeting.
The news will be welcomed by the many objectors to the scheme, including
the community councils of Lauderdale, Heriot and Stow & Fountainhall.
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