Re-think campaign reaches parliament
The campaign for a rethink on the mast has reached the Scottish Parliament.
Stirling’s SNP MSP Bruce Crawford (pictured) has submitted a motion to the Scottish Parliament, demanding that a new site be found for the meter.
Mr Crawford’s motion calls on the applicant Arqiva to “seriously consider an alternative location”.
He said:“Strathyre and its surrounding area benefits from outstanding natural beauty, and protecting this must always be taken into consideration when applications such as this are submitted.
“I am disappointed in the decision that has been reached on this planning application, although I respect the strict processes that are undertaken in order to do so, therefore I am calling on Arqiva to seriously consider an alternative location for this smart meter mast and I am pleased that a number of MSP colleagues have backed my calls through this parliamentary motion.”
SNP Councillor Evelyn Tweed, who gave evidence on behalf of the community in objection to this application, added:“I am pleased Bruce Crawford has raised this in Parliament and that MSPs from across the country are backing calls for Arqiva to consider an alternative location. I hope that Arqiva take this call seriously and put what the community wants first.”
Stiring Tory MP Stephen Kerr meanwhile has written to Arqiva’s CEO over the matter.
In his letter to Arqiva CEO Simon Beresford-Wylie, Mr Kerr said:“The location proposed is alongside the busy tourist route of the A84 Trunk Road and the visual amenity impact, given the mast extends above the existing tree line, is significant.
“Objectors have argued that an alternative location, one that would locate this mast alongside an existing mast just north of the proposed location, would be far better and would have the support of the residents in the village. Can I ask that, despite planning approval being obtained, this alternate site be thoroughly investigated and if coverage is not compromised that it be utilised.
“The village of Strathyre is a beautiful location and one we should do everything possible to maintain with as little visual degradation as possible. I know the considerate actions of Arqiva would be welcomed by many people should you decide to do everything possible to address the issue and obtain a positive outcome.”