Armadale wind farm: Developer claims changes address local concerns as updated plans submitted
Developers behind the controversial Armadale wind farm plans are "content" that proposed changes to the scheme address concerns raised locally.
Brookfield Renewable UK has submitted an amended application for nine turbines on a site close to the north coast village.
It had originally consulted on a 23-turbine farm in 2020, and submitted an application for 12 turbines last year.
That was met by vociferous opposition in the local community, with local people saying the turbines would be too close to residential buildings and will tower over the village.
The turbines are earmarked to go up on hill land and common grazings overlooking the village and the A836 – part of the North Coast 500.
Jason McCall, project director at Brookfield Renewable, said: “Having listened to the specific concerns held for our original proposal, we were pleased to discuss the refined proposals for the nine-turbine Armadale Wind Farm at a dedicated community engagement event in January.
"We have continued engagement with residents and community councils since that time, and we are content that the nine-turbine scheme addresses concerns around visual, noise and shadow flicker.
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“We are committed to developing a responsible project that is good for society and our neighbours - bringing forward sustainable, long-term community initiatives that meet local priorities, needs and objectives.
"If approved, Armadale Wind Farm will bring important benefits for the local community through the provision of recreational amenity, community ownership opportunities and a long-term community benefit fund of up to £215,000 per annum."
The proposed amendment, which has been submitted to the Scottish Government’s Energy Consents Unit, also includes a battery energy storage system.
It is understood that two of the turbines were removed from the scheme in response to objections from residents and the other following concern from Historic Environment Scotland about the perceived unacceptable impact on a broch.
Speaking in January when the proposed amendment was shared with the community, Detta Velvis, spokesperson for Armadale Windfarm Action Group, said its objection remains.
"Three less turbines doesn't change my view or anyone else in the group I have spoken to," she said. "The opposition remains as firm as ever.
"Three or four of the remaining turbines will still be within a kilometre of housing and the scheme will still tower over the village."
