Developers and wilderness campaigners will be in Aviemore today to settle the timetable for a public inquiry into a controversial windfarm.
RWE npower renewables has applied to build 31 turbines on the tops of the Monadhliath Mountains, near Kincraig. The Allt Duine scheme would be just a few hundred yards from the boundaries of the Cairngorms National Park.
The towers, on Alvie, Dalraddy and Dunachton estates, would reach a height of 410ft and be capable of generating electricity for about 43,000 homes.
The plans, which will be decided by Scottish ministers, have run into strong opposition from critics such as mountaineer Cameron McNeish.
The Save the Monadhliath Mountains group has collected 1,475 signatures from people against the windfarm.
Earlier this year, Highland councillors voted to oppose the scheme on the grounds that it could have a detrimental impact on the national park. The Cairngorms National Park Authority also lodged an official objection. An RWE spokeswoman insisted the proposed windfarm was within Highland Council’s preferred area for a development of this type.
“Consultation with members of the public, community councils and organisations including the Highland Council, Scottish Natural Heritage, Cairngorms National Park Authority and the Scottish Environment Protection Agency has helped to shape the design and development of the proposed windfarm,” she added.
Today’s hearing at the Aviemore Highland Resort will consider whether written submissions are needed for some subjects and set a timetable for interested parties to exchange information.
The main public inquiry is due to start on October 22. Among those expected to take part are Highland Council, Cairngorms National Park Authority, Kincraig Community Council and Save the Monadhliath Mountains campaigners.