The last of several events focusing on Moray Council’s windfarm policy was held yesterday.
The council is consulting on a draft document containing updated guidance on dealing with planning applications for onshore turbines.
It existing guidance on wind energy dates from 2005.
Recent proposals for large developments at sites such as Brown Muir, south of Elgin, have been widely opposed.
The draft document examines “preferred search areas” for windfarms and the need to monitor the cumulative impact of developments in Moray.
It says there are “very limited opportunities for further large-scale proposals” because of the number of windfarms already in the area.
But it highlights the scope for smaller developments.
About 80 people attended consultation events at Aberlour, Elgin and Keith last week.
Yesterday, the exhibition was at Forres Town Hall to gauge residents’ views.
Rob Matthews, from Dallas, was impressed. He said: “It’s good that they are taking the time to consult. The only alternative is nuclear energy really, but they do scar the landscape.”
The council’s principal planning officer, Gary Templeton, said the consultations had been useful.
He added: “Keith was quite good – a few farmers and landowners who were interested in developing turbines dropped in. We’ve also received about 40 responses online.”
The public have until Friday to give their responses to the consultation by visiting www.moray.gov.uk
Once approved, the new guidance will be treated as a material consideration in determining planning applications for wind turbines over 65ft.
Today, a consultation will be held at Edinkillie Hall, Dunphail, on plans for a 14-turbine windfarm.
Alastair Laing, who owns Logie Estate, hopes Moray Council will approve the proposals, which would involve turbines being constructed on the Hill of Glaschye.
Recommended for you
