Highland Council ordered a shutdown of all wind turbines in its school playgrounds yesterday amid fears over children’s safety.
The decision to switch off the 16 devices was taken after a report from an independent consultant revealed that youngsters could be in danger.
The local authority insisted turning off the turbines was a temporary, “precautionary measure” and that there was no “imminent” safety risk.
In 2009, a school turbine on the island of Raasay off Skye disintegrated – and one of its rotor blades was left sticking out of the ground like a spear.
The device was not replaced. Parents and councillors spoke out earlier this year about the lack of exclusion zones around turbines in school grounds.
Campaigner Brenda Herrick, of Castletown Community Council, who has raised concerns about the machines, said: “It’s absolutely fantastic that Highland Council has finally realised these turbines are unsafe.
“The most shocking thing about it all was how much the council didn’t know about these things and the dangers associated with them.
“I am delighted these turbines have been suspended.”
Inverness Central councillor Donnie Kerr said he was pleased the issue was being taken seriously.
The Building Research Establishment (BRE) – a national consultancy firm – is examining the 16 school sites around the region to establish whether extra measures are needed.
The organisation is expected to deliver further reports to the local authority within the next three weeks.