By Kathryn Wylie
Hawick Community Council has become the latest organisation to declare
opposition to the proposed Pines Burn wind farm near Bonchester Bridge.
Members this week discussed the pros and cons of the application by
Leeds-based Energiekontor UK to erect 12 turbines on the Harwood Estate and
although split in opinion, they made a majority decision to object to the
plans.
Vice-chairman Cameron Knox presented an overview of the facts to members,
emphasising the height and size of the development. He said: “These
turbines will be some of the biggest in the Borders. It is a huge construction.
“The main points here are the height of the turbines and the construction
traffic going towards the site.”
He also warned that the culmulative effect of multiple potential schemes
could turn the area into a “turbine valley” should they all be approved.
Further issues raised by community councillors and members of the public
included the transportation of turbine traffic through Hawick and the
integrity of the company’s drawings and designs.
Community councillors also took a dim view of the company’s local profile
within its application.
They said the profile, highlighting the area’s falling population, negative
crime statistics and loss of traditional industry, as an overly negative
assessment, described by chairwoman Marion Short as “patronising and
offensive”.
Officiated by Hawick and Hermitage councillor George Turnbull, a ballot
ended up seven votes to three against the plans.
Chairwoman Marion Short said: “I know it is an emotive topic, and we all
have views on it. The community council will be responding on the basis of
a majority decision here.”
The application has now been considered by all of the relevant community
councils, with Hobkirk, Jed Valley, Denholm and Southdean community
councils expressing their unanimous opposition over the last six weeks.
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