Refusal of wind farm plan is hailed by objectors

CONSERVATIONISTS have welcomed the decision to refuse planning permission for a new wind farm near an area of wild land.

Energy Minister Fergus Ewing announced that he agreed with the findings of a public local inquiry and would not grant consent to the Limekiln Wind Farm in Caithness, which would have built 24 new turbines.

Developers Infinergy said the project, near the East Halladale Flows wild land area, would have powered 40,200 households but Highland councillors objected.

Mr Ewing announced his decision yesterday, along with the approval of a wind farm of 19 turbines in Kennoxhead, South Lanarkshire. The latter development will power more than 30,200 homes and is expected to benefit the local community by £8 million over 25 years.

Mr Ewing said: “We have been clear that wind farms can only be built in the right places, and that proposed developments are subject to strict planning laws.

“Our policy strikes a careful balance between utilising Scotland’s renewable energy resources whilst protecting our finest scenic landscapes and natural heritage.”

Helen McDade, head of policy for the John Muir Trust, said: “As someone who grew up in Caithness, I am delighted for the local community which campaigned strongly to protect the unique character of this landscape.

“But this is also a landmark decision of national significance. The refusal explicitly states that ‘significant weight should be attached to the policies protecting wild land’.

“It sends a clear message to developers that Scotland’s wild land is a national asset which merits protection.”