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Hundreds of small windfarms approved for South Lanarkshire
Credit: Stef Lach ,Senior Reporter | Evening Times | 17 June 2013 | www.eveningtimes.co.uk ~~
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Translate: FROM English | TO English
Hundreds of small-scale windfarms have been given planning permission and are due to appear in the next few months, it was revealed today.
South Lanarkshire already has 384 wind turbines operating on windfarms of four or more turbines, generating enough electricity to power 450,000 homes.
But a report by South Lanarkshire Council’s Planning Committee reveals a further 200 sites have been given planning permission for three or fewer turbines – with the turbines yet to be constructed.
Windfarms with just a single turbine have the potential to generate enough energy for hundreds of homes.
Renewable energy firm RES is hoping for permission to build a single, 100metre high turbine at Crutherland Farm in East Kilbride.
RES held a consultation event last week, where it sought the views of residents.
Michelle Howley, RES project manager, said: “Over 60 people came through the doors of the public exhibition last week, and alongside the various questions raised there were many positive comments about our proposals.
“The views of the community are very important to RES and the comments we have received will be taken into account as we finalise our plans.
“One area we are particularly keen to continue talking to the local community about is suggestions for how our proposed community benefit package can best be delivered over the lifetime of the turbine, if our application is approved.”
The local Lindsay, Auldhouse and Chapelton Community Council has raised concerns over the number of small scale windfarms in the area.
A spokesman said: “We haven’t yet raised any specific issues regarding the Crutherland Farm proposal. Our issue is a wider one.
“If these were applications for pubs or bookies you would not see so many being approved in one area.
“We understand the need for clean energy, but we think there needs to be a clearer policy in dealing with the applications.”
A windfarm near Muttonhole Road, between East Kilbride and Hamilton, attracted very few objections.
But the council says it does refuse some applications, usually when the impact on the landscape outweighs potential benefits.
A spokeswoman said: “South Lanarkshire Council supports the development of renewable energy. However, this must be balanced against the impact on the environment and communities.”
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