ARGYLL and Bute councillors have been asked to lodge an objection to plans for up to nine wind turbines to be situated at West Torrisdale.
Officials from the authority have asked councillors to object to the proposal on five separate grounds, including landscape and visual impact.
Concern has also been voiced about whether ‘holding objections’ by SEPA (Scottish Environmental Protection Agency) and Highlands and Islands Airports have been resolved.
Matters relating to peat, and the requirements of Scottish Forestry, are also the cause of grounds for objection, a report has said.
The nine wind turbines would have a maximum tip height of 149.9 metres. The report recommending objection will go before the council’s planning, protective services and licensing committee at its meeting on Wednesday, April 22.
The document also states that at the time of writing, the Scottish Government’s energy (ECU) consents unit had received 27 objections.
The report said: “NatureScot (landscape and visual) have advised the ECU that the proposal will have significant adverse effects on the special landscape qualities (SLQs) of the North Arran national scenic area (NSA) such that the objectives of the designation and overall integrity of the area would be compromised. NatureScot therefore object.
“They consider that the proposal would result in significant adverse effects on two SLQs of the North Arran NSA in relation to the west coast: an exceptional area for outdoor recreation; and a distinctive coastline with a rich variety of forms.
“NatureScot are unable to reach a firm conclusion on the effects on the ‘An exceptional area for outdoor recreation’ SLQ in relation to the NSA hill areas without an onsite visit. This has not been possible during the consultation period.
“They will update their advice when it has been possible to conduct an onsite visit to these areas. NatureScot have considered other interests and taken them into account in reaching their conclusion.”
Among the recommendations to councillors is: “Argyll and Bute Council objects on the grounds that the proposal will have an unacceptable significant landscape and visual impact upon residents and the integrity of the East Kintyre local landscape area.”
