Ministers reject Spittal Hill wind-farm plan
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A PLAN to build a 30-turbine wind farm in Caithness has been rejected due to concerns about the impact it would have.
The Scottish Government has refused planning consent for Spittal Hill Wind Farm Ltd’s proposed wind farm 1.2km north-east of Spittal.
Energy minister Fergus Ewing found that the impact of the proposed wind farm on the occupants of nearby properties would be too high when considered together with existing and consented wind farms nearby.
The Highland Council objected to the application and so a local public inquiry was held in May 2011.
Following that inquiry an independent reporter appointed by Scottish ministers recommended consent should be refused.
Mr Ewing said he was determined to ensure communities all over Scotland reap the benefits from renewable energy – but not at any cost.
He said: “The impact of this proposed wind farm on the landscape, and the impact it would have on the homes of those who live closest to it, is too great.”
*See Friday’s John O’Groat Journal for more on this story.
