Wind farms ‘can be good for wildlife’

WIND turbines can be positive for wildlife and aesthetically pleasing, according to the body responsible for Scotland’s nature and landscape.

Andrew Thin, chair of Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH), told Holyrood’s economy, energy and tourism committee that turbines can have both “positive and negative” impacts on the environment.

He said: “We have evidence that wind farms can be positive for certain species and, from some people’s point of view, a well-designed wind farm can be positive in the landscape in aesthetic terms.”

However, he added: “If we get this wrong, if we consent badly-designed wind farms, public concern will rise faster.” The committee is preparing for a visit from US tycoon Donald Trump, who is fighting proposals for a wind farm.