Public consulted on small-scale wind farms

THE public is being asked to comment on new planning guidelines for the growing interest in small-scale wind farm developments in the Highlands.

A draft guidance on wind turbine proposals, many of which have caused considerable controversy, has been produced by Highland Council.

Thomas Prag, chairman of the Planning, Environment and Development Committee, said: “The council supports the principle of renewables – including wind energy.

“Small scale turbines are part of that, but they can cause quite a bit of controversy locally, so we need a consistent approach to judge each application on its merits.

“This draft guidance aims to set out the framework on which each decision will be based.

“So it’s really important that we get feedback on it from the public, organisations and the renewables industry.”

The draft guidance has been posted on the council website www.highland.gov.uk and in local Highland Council Libraries, Service Points and Inverness HQ.

The consultation runs until October 4.