An application to build a new 74.8MW wind turbine farm near New Cumnock has
been approved at the second time of asking by East Ayrshire Council.
Durham-based developer Banks Renewables had reduced the number of turbines
at the Lethans site by four from their original application.
The bid now goes for final approval to the Scot-Govt as it still exceeds
the 50-MW ‘large development’ energy threshold.
A Banks Renewables spokesman said: “We’ve been listening to East Ayrshire
Council, the statutory consultees and local residents to understand what
the key concerns were in regards to the wind farm.
“Consequently, five of the most visually prevalent ridge line turbines were
removed and one new turbine inserted in a less visually-intrusive part of
the site to reduce the landscape and visual impact.”
The developer has vowed to provide the following community benefits if it
wins final planning approval; –
A chance to purchase up to 5% equity stake in the wind farm, subject to a
25% community discount
£8 million into the community benefit fund over the 25 year lifespan of the
wind farm, and:
A £250,000 investment to facilitate improvements to public access and
potentially mountain biking facilities
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