Highland Council yesterday defended its handling of a major windfarm planning application following a charity’s claim that officials ignored Scottish Government guidelines on “protected areas”.
Councillors gave the nod on Tuesday for a 22-turbine scheme on Altnaharra Estate in Sutherland, which Scottish Government ministers will ultimately rule on.
The John Muir Trust wild land charity alleged that council planning officers “did not properly reflect the level of protection Scottish Government has given to wild land areas” in its consideration of the proposed Creag Riabhach Wind Farm.
In a statement, the council said: “The policy context for the development proposal is clearly set out within the report presented to members of the north planning applications committee.
“A key part of the report is the Scottish Government policy on wild land. It was fully considered and assessed in finalising the recommendation made to members.”
Community leaders and the developers welcomed the committee’s approval for the project.
Creag Riabhach Wind Farm Ltd director Tim Philpot said: “We appreciate that councillors took the time to visit Altnaharra to see the village, working estate and our proposed site for themselves to gain a better understanding of our proposals before making their decision and we look forward to working with the Council as our application progresses.”
Bettyhill, Strathnaver and Altnaharra, Durness, Tongue, and Kinlochbervie community councils each wrote letters of support.
Local resident Jean Smart added: “I’m delighted councillors have listened to the community. North and West Sutherland is a fragile area and the proposed windfarm will have a positive impact on our local economy.
“Although I understand people have concerns about tourism there is no issue for our area as the community relies on activity-led not just beauty-spot tourism.”
The windfarm is proposed for west of the Strath Vagastie valley, to the west of the A836, 12 miles north of Lairg and three miles south of Altnaharra. The turbines would be up to 410ft tall.
The developer has promised community benefit trusts of £9million and a windfall of “over £700,000” for local communities through a foundation that would aim to provide employment and business opportunities.
A newly created trust will also feature assistance for the local community with paying electricity bills.