Charity’s concern over offshore windfarm proposal

A CONSERVATION charity behind a court battle against offshore windfarms has concerns about turbines proposed near Levenmouth.

Court action by the RSPB Scotland was blamed for delaying development of the Neart na Gaoithe windfarm in the Firth of Forth by two-and-a-half years.

The organisation is now worried about the impact of eight turbines in a demonstration offshore windfarm near Methil. It said it could not rule out a further legal challenge to the plans of 2B Energy, which already has consent for two of the turbines and is to seek the go-ahead for a further six. Charles Nathan, RSPB marine conservation planner, said that although a smaller development, its impact had to be considered in conjunction with the four larger windfarms approved in the firths of Tay and Forth, also including Inch Cape, Seagreen Alpha and Bravo.

Additionally, he said, the Methil turbines would affect bird species, including ducks, divers, gulls and gannets. He said: “There are large seabird colonies right along the coast which use the area for all their life cycle stages, feeding, foraging and nesting.

“In terms of the impact from turbines, they can be displaced from the area and there is an impact on colonies flying in and among the turbines.”

Marc Murray, 2B Energy project manager, said consultation had already led to a reduction in the number of turbines proposed from nine to eight and a realignment to minimise impact on birds.

He added: “We look forward to working with the RSPB through this process and currently believe a positive outcome can be achieved for the project without undue pressure on local bird populations.”