Rajmund Bakonyi, Trainee Reporter
A new wind farm could be popping up in the Ochils if proposals get the
green light.
Three turbines, with a maximum blade tip height of 135m from ground level,
are proposed on a site adjacent to the operational Burnfoot Hill Wind Farm.
With a capacity of 10.8MW, the new Burnfoot East Wind Farm is likely to
generate up to around 25,500MWh a year if it gets the go-ahead.
Together with the already existing 18 turbines, a combined capacity of 42MW
could power all of Clackmannanshire’s homes, operating on a capacity factor
of 27 per cent.
Developers Wind Prospect Developments Ltd say the final layout for the site
is the result of a very thorough design process, following detailed
environmental surveys and an extensive consultation process.
They say the plans consider, amongst other matters, the potential impacts
on the local ecology, cultural heritage, landscape and visual effects.
The green development will also contribute towards reducing Scotland’s
carbon emissions – something the nation aspires to become a world leader in.
Local residents are being invited to an information event in the area,
where they will have the chance to discuss the proposals with the Wind
Prospect team.
Karen Thorburn, development manager at the company, said: “The submission
of the planning application follows an eight month period of extensive
consultation with the local community about the project, which has helped
to influence the design of the proposed wind farm.
“We would like to thank the local community who have given their time to
consult with us throughout the development process.
“We look forward to meeting local residents again at the information events
which will be held on February 15 at Devonvale Hall, Tillicoultry, and on
February 16 at the Moray Institute, Blackford, between the hours of 3pm and
7pm.
“Comments on the planning application should be submitted directly to
Clackmannanshire Council using the reference number 17/00026/FULL. The
council website should be consulted for the deadline for submitting
representations.”
A benefits package worth more than £5,000 MW per annum through the
operational lifetime of the project will also be offered to the community,
building on the funding scheme associated with the already existing wind farm.
Dollar Glen Football Club, Strathdevon Primary Parent Council, Alva Bowling
Club and Tillicoultry Out-of-School Care Club have all accessed the funds
since the site began generating low carbon electricity in 2010.
In addition, an annual payment has been made to the Ochils Mountain Rescue
Team and a cash boost has been provided towards a Land Rover, which assists
the team when attending emergencies.
To apply for a cash boost, visit foundationscotland.org.uk
The wind farm originally started with 13 turbines and has seen two
extensions since, the six turbine Rhodders Wind Farm with a further two
turbines were also added later.
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