WINDFARM REVIEW
Proposals for new site updated following extensive design study
PROPOSALS for a new wind farm between Dalmellington and New Cumnock have been updated following an extensive design review.
And now residents of both towns will get their chance to examine the proposals and leave feedback.
South Kyle II Wind Farm would be located on land adjacent to South Kyle Wind Farm, the major project inaugurated by developers Vattenfall last summer.
First proposed in early 2022, plans for South Kyle II Wind Farm were then revised from a 17 to a nine-turbine layout with exhibitions held locally in November of that year.
Since then the proposal has undergone further rigorous review, taking on board local feedback, stakeholder input and extensive environmental data.
This process identified two additional wind turbine locations within the site thus increasing South Kyle II Wind Farm’s potential to generate renewable energy
and community benefits.
The developers are now opening up a fresh round of public consultation to gather local feedback prior to finalising the proposal and seeking consent from the Scottish Government.
The updated plans for an 11-turbine layout including how it could generate local economic opportunities, protect and enhance habitats and generate over £18million for local community benefits are outlined in a new digital exhibition at www.vattenfall.co.uk/southkyle2.
Feedback can be provided via the webpage, and there will be a chance for local people to meet the team and ask questions at public exhibitions in Dalmellington
Community Centre open Tuesday, April 23 from 3.30-7pm and in New Cumnock Town Hall on Wednesday, April 24 from 47.30pm.
Simon Lejeune, Vattenfall’s lead project development manager, said: “South Kyle II Wind Farm could generate renewable electricity for tens of thousands of homes whilst supporting the local economy, protecting and enhancing wildlife and delivering millions in community benefits.
“Over the past two years we have extensively gathered data and feedback, subjecting the plans to rigorous analysis and review to design the best wind farm we can.
“Before finalising the plans, we’re keen to gather further feedback from local communities, and would encourage anyone who lives and works locally to take a look and input their questions and suggestions.”
The community consultation for South Kyle II Wind Farm will be open until May 24. To find out more visit www.vattenfall.co.uk/ southkyle2.