Public inquiry demanded by wind farm developers

Published on 17/09/2012 12:00

DEVELOPERS behind a major wind farm project on the edge of the Pentlands Regional Park have called for a public inquiry to allow objections to the £200 million scheme to be dealt with quickly.

The Fauch Hill Wind Farm Project, which energy firm the European Forest Resources Group says will power up to 43,000 homes, will have to be considered by the Scottish Government due to objections from West Lothian Council, Edinburgh City Council and others.

Building the 23 turbines is expected to create significant employment, but there are concerns the location of the site will impact on views of the Pentlands – with Scottish Natural Heritage among those opposing current plans.

Despite the objections, project director Debbie Chawner said there had been considerable support from West Lothian residents.

West Lothian SNP leader Peter Johnston said it had been a mistake for the local authority’s Labour/Conservative coalition to oppose the project.