Stronelairg Wind Farm: Government appeal legal rejection

The Scottish Government and energy firm SSE have confirmed they are to appeal against a legal rejection of a 67-turbine wind farm.

The Scottish Government and SSE are appealing the courst's rejection of the turbine project. Picture: John Devlin

In a judicial review at the Court of Session earlier this month, Lord Jones said the government’s approval of Stronelairg Wind Farm was “defective” and breached environmental obligations.

The John Muir Trust, which launched the review, argued the turbines would “destroy the character” of wild land. It said yesterday it was disappointing about the appeal.

A Scottish Government spokesman said: “Scottish ministers have considered the judgement of Lord Jones in relation to the petition lodged by the John Muir Trust for the judicial review of the Scottish ministers’ decision to grant consent to construct and operate the Stronelairg wind farm, Garrogie Estate, Fort Augustus. Scottish ministers are appealing the decision.”

SSE said the project was “carefully designed” and would be “entirely invisible from Loch Ness”.

Helen McDade, with the John Muir Trust, said: “Lord Jones confirmed in his decision that the Trust was taking this action for the public good.

“It is disappointing the Scottish Government is spending more public money to defend a planning decision which has been found to be illegal.”