Wild land group firmly opposed to triple hydro scheme plan
CONSERVATION groups have condemned plans for hydro schemes in an iconic beauty spot that was a location for the James Bond film Skyfall.
Wild land charity the John Muir Trust has lodged objections to three proposed projects in Glen Etive near Glen Coe because of their “significant” impact on the landscape.
The projects at Allt Ceitlein, Allt Chaorainn, and Allt Mheuran are in the Ben Nevis and Glen Coe National Scenic Area, within a designated Wild Land Area and in Glen Etive and Glen Fyne Special Protection Area.
proposals are part of seven hydro schemes planned for the glen by the same company.
The trust has stated in its objections that each develnent opment would contribute to a cumulative impact.
John Low, policy officer for the John Muir Trust, said: “These hydro schemes would introduce permathe new tracks and related works into the wild land of the Glen Etive mountains. It’s clearly not the right place – the impact on the landscape would be significant. These are areas afforded significant protection in Scottish planning policy.
“The fact a number of organisations, groups, and many individuals are making the case against these proposals highlights a growing call for these applications to be rejected.
“Individually and cumulatively they would have a terrible visual and physical impact on this inspirational glen.”
In its objection, the trust highlighted the potential loss of the wild land characteristics, not only to hillwalkers and mountaineers, but also to the wider public, highlighting that the experience of spectacular scenery from the glen road would be vastly diminished.