Plans to build four wind turbines at a north-east village are poised to be given the go-ahead – despite confusion over the scheme’s name.
Inverurie-firm Green Cat Renewables tabled proposals for the 220ft structures at Fyvie on behalf of local landowners as a “community” development.
But there are now fears locals will mistakenly believe the turbines will be owned by residents.
In a letter submitted to local authority planners, the chairman of Fyvie Community Council, said calling the structures “community wind turbines” meant the project could be misinterpreted.
Brian Martin said: “To clarify the position, this proposed development is not, and will not, be owned or managed by the local community.”
The owners of the land will set aside a percentage of the income generated by the turbines to give to a local trust for distribution within the village.
Homeowners near the proposed site for the structures, north-west of
Hill of Petty, have also raised concerns.
Mr Martin said: “A small number of residents living relatively close to the proposed site have indicated their concerns that these wind turbines could have an adverse effect on their lives and lifestyle.
“It is important that these are given due weight in assessing and deciding this application.”
He added the community council “clearly recognises” that the monetary benefit of the turbines to the village would not be considered as a reason to vote in favour of the project.
Stephen Archer, Aberdeenshire Council’s head of infrastructure services, has urged members of the local authority’s Formartine area committee to approve the plan when they meet on October 27.
“In terms of visual impact, it is noted that the development would be visible from a number of viewpoints, however, it is considered that given the turbines will be viewed as a group and not individually, their impact will be lessened,” he said.
“It is thought that standalone turbines can have a greater impact on the landscape rather than those viewed as a group.”
Twenty-nine wind turbines have already been approved within three miles of the development site.