A renewable energy company has voiced disappointment after Highland councillors added their objections to controversial plans for 14 new turbines near Loch Ness, triggering a public inquiry.
Plans to extend the existing 23-turbine Corriegarth Wind Farm at Gorthleck to the south of the loch have been submitted to the Scottish Government by renewable energy developer BayWa r.e. UK.
Although council planning officers recommended the south planning applications committee not to object subject to conditions being met, members went against the recommendation after concerns were raised about the visual impact.
As the Corriegarth project has an installed capacity of greater than 50MW, the final decision rests with Scottish ministers and will now be determined through a public inquiry due to the council’s objection.
BayWa r.e. UK initially submitted an application for 16 turbines in January 2021 but, following consultation, two turbines have been removed and eight turbines relocated in the plans.
The turbines, with a blade tip height of 149.9m, are expected to generate more than 67.5MW of electricity.
Key consultees such as the Cairngorms National Park Authority, NatureScot, SEPA and Historic Environment Scotland have not objected to the proposals.
But Stratherrick and Foyers Community Council, Glenurquhart Community Council and others have objected, raising concerns about the cumulative impact of more turbines plus adverse ecological impacts including the removal of a large area of blanket bo
https://www.inverness-courier.co.uk/news/disappointment-over-council-objection-to-wind-turbines-286728/
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