By David Kerr
It is now “almost impossible” to find a mountain from which a wind farm
cannot be seen, according to a senior mountaineering figure.
David Gibson, chief executive of Mountaineering Scotland, revealed his
fears about the “onslaught” of onshore wind developments on the
world-famous landscape of the Highlands.
He said the representative body was supportive of renewable energy – but
said forms of development are needed which protect the mountain landscape.
Mr Gibson said: “Our members’ primary interest is in mountains and it is
almost impossible now to find a mountain from which a wind farm cannot be seen.
“Protection exists in planning policy for national parks and national
scenic areas, but not for mountain areas outside, which are of passionate
interest to our members and others who seek adventure, and the health and
wellbeing benefits such venues provide.
“The pressure on the mountains is increasing – and arguably so is the
adverse impact on tourism.”
Mr Gibson highlighted the example of the Creag Riabhach windfarm which was
the first development given permission by the Scottish Government which
breached the boundary of the national wild land map.
Mr Gibson said: “Creag Riabhach is unwelcome – not just because of its
impact on Sutherland’s fantastic landscape, which will be diminished
substantially if the development goes ahead – also as a ministerial
decision taken without reference to a democratic appeal or inquiry.
“Importantly, the decision lowered the protective bar for wild land and was
taken against the advice of the government’s own advisors Scottish Natural
Heritage.
“We call on the Minister to honour the pledge to ‘afford significant
protection’ to wild land areas, before our wonderful open landscapes are
scarred forever. He should reject such future developments.”
A Scottish Government spokeswoman said: “We have clear planning policies in
place to ensure wind farms are developed in appropriate locations, and
applications are refused when they do not meet strict criteria. Whilst we
need to pursue Scotland’s vast potential to generate power from renewable
sources, it is equally clear that we need to do this in a way that protects
Scotland’s magnificent natural environment.
“Scottish planning policy makes clear that wind farms are not appropriate
in national parks or national scenic areas – which cover a fifth of
Scotland – and also strengthens protection for wild land areas.
“That will always be the basis of our renewable energy policies and we will
go on striking that balance, working with partners across the energy,
environment and tourism sectors and ensure that they all thrive.”
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