Dear Sir,
A wind farm of 20 turbines each measuring 110m turbines at Cairn Duchies,
1.5km south east of the village of Ferness, has been approved by the
Scottish Government
despite almost 2000 objections and objections from Highland and Moray
Councils, Cairngorms National Park Authority, the John Muir Trust and
Community Councils. Those fighting the wind farm said it would destroy the
stunning scenery and nature which attracts tourists, particularly the Dava
Moors, which has special landscape area (SLA) status and the Cairngorms
National Park.
How can the Government justify overruling this undeniable show of opinion
from Highlanders? In England since July 2015 any application to build wind
turbines has had to have the clear backing of the community.
Why not here? This is not even only local opinion; it is two Council areas
and national charities.
Those in the cities blithely say they are in favour of wind power. About
80% of the population live in urban areas so the Government gets the answer
in the polls that wind farms have public support. I seriously doubt if
people really think about the question for those living in the
countryside. How many go on holiday abroad and never see
their own country?
Nicloa Sturgeon at the SNP conference referred to our beautiful country in
regard to tourism. For those of us who appreciated this beauty before the
arrival of wind farms, the claim rings hollow. In 1995 wind farms were
visible from 1% of the country, 2005 it was 16%, 2015 it was 48%. SNH has
stopped this mapping. Goodness knows what it is now. It can only have
increased.
My deepest sympathy to those who have to live near these structures. The
Reporter said two properties would be most affected, adding: “Others would
be affected but the total number is low, none would be so affected that the
property would become an unattractive place to live.”
How can he justify this and how angry would you feel when all you love
about your home has been destroyed?
Yours sincerely,
Celia Hobbs
Penicuik
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