Windfarm plan under the spotlight – Press and Journal

By Jamie McKenzie

Plans for a Caithness windfarm which received 260 objections will be
decided by Scottish Government ministers after a local public inquiry.

Power giant E.ON’s proposed Golticlay development, north of Lybster, would
have 19 turbines up to 426ft tall.

Councillors formally objected to the plans in September, highlighting
concerns about the negative impact on local osprey and rare wildcat
populations, resulting in an inquiry.

A spokeswoman for E-ON said the company was “disappointed” by the north
planning committee’s view as they believe the site is a “suitable location
for a windfarm.”

Independent Caithness councillor Matthew Reiss, a former wildlife crime
officer, said: “If we damage the natural environment we will eventually get
to the point where our reputation starts to suffer.”

Mr Reiss says he has asked Scottish Wildcat Action, a member of Scottish
Natural Heritage, to fund a wildcat survey at the site but was told
Caithness is not a priority area.

Studies by E-ON have found osprey nests at the site and recorded their
flight paths, but the developers say they would relocate the rare birds to
artificial nests.

Objector Stuart Young said “The Scottish Government since it took power has
systematically removed the rights of the people.”

A Scottish Government spokesman said: “All material issues, including
public representations, are carefully considered before the determination
of any wind farm application.

“Relevant material considerations will be considered by the inquiry.”