Golden eagles scupper wind farm

Published on Thursday 15 October 2009 22:07

BIRD experts have welcomed the Scottish Government's decision to refuse permission for a wind farm they said would have posed a risk to golden eagles.

WPR Wind Ltd hoped to build a 14-turbine wind farm near Inveraray in Argyll. However, RSPB Scotland objected to the proposal on the grounds that the site was one of the most productive areas in the country for golden eagles.

WPR Wind Ltd first sought permission in 2005 to build the Stacain wind farm. Argyll and Bute Council approved the application against the recommendations of its planning officers.

However, due to the wider environmental implications and objections from Scottish Natural Heritage and RSPB Scotland, Scottish ministers called in the application and a public inquiry was held last year.

Now ministers have decided to refuse permission in line with the recommendations of the inquiry Reporter.

Andy Robinson, RSPB Scotland's conservation officer for Argyll and Bute, said: "We need more wind farms, but not at any cost to the natural environment. We are glad that a sensible decision has been made in relation to this inappropriate and potentially damaging development.

"The decision confirms the importance of this area for golden eagles," he said.

"We must deliver much-needed renewable energy where it doesn't harm Scotland's most precious wildlife."

Avich and Kilchrenan Community Council had also raised concerns about the visual impact and the effect of the plan on the landscape.

The wind farm was due to be built on land to the north-west of Lochan Shira reservoir, next to Srn Mr hydroelectric power station.

The company said residents had the opportunity to invest in the project and a proportion of the revenue could be used to establish a trust fund for community projects.

The 42-megawatt wind farm would have produced enough power for 23,400 homes. This would have prevented about 40,800 tonnes of carbon dioxide being released into the atmosphere – the equivalent to taking 9,100 cars off the road.

Last month, a study by RSPB said some of Scotland's most vulnerable bird species were in decline because of poorly positioned wind turbines.

&#149 A public exhibition is being held next week on plans to build a hydroelectric scheme on the Kildermorie Estate, in Ross-shire. SSE Generation Ltd

wants to build the 7.5MW plant, which would power 9,400 homes.