In the face of all the odds and all the evidence Ross-shire councillors have agreed to back a 17-turbine Lochluichart wind farm.
But the fight is by no means over. We can still win this battle. But you must object - yet again!
Incredibly the Ross-shire area committee ignored the recommendation of their own officials to reject the application for 22 turbines.
Instead they decided back a future application for 17 turbines before it had even been lodged.
All we ask is that the new application, now lodged, for 17 turbines be properly and fully considered by Highland Council.
The Scottish Executive has agreed the new 17 turbine application must be subject to the full consultation process.
But how can the consultation be open and fair if a decision has been taken in advance? That is why we insist it must be looked at afresh.
If it is not then the thousands of people who have objected to a Lochluichart wind farm will have been denied a fair hearing.
OBJECT NOW ON THE NEW FORM, IT ONLY TAKES A MINUTE
YOU CAN OBJECT TO THE NEW PLANS
EVEN IF YOU HAVE OBJECTED TO THE OLD ONES
Do we need Lochluichart Wind Farm?
Wind power is increasingly discredited as an answer to global warming. The Oxford Institute for Energy Studies says: Even if wind farm targets are met, it will only have a very small impact on reducing carbon dioxide. Oxford Economic Research Associates say wind farms will need £12billion in public subsidies - taxpayers money.
Who pays for Lochluichart?
You do. Wind power costs more than double conventional fuel. Lochluichart will be subsidised by consumers. It will not directly supply Highland homes, nor will it reduce your electricity bill. The annual business rate will go to the Scottish Executive not Highland Council.
ENDANGERED AND PROTECTED WILDLIFE in the Highlands...
Lochluichart Estate is home to a wide range of insect, bird and animal life including endangered Golden Eagle, Golden Plover, Water Vole, Red-Throated Diver and Peregrine Falcon.
The developers full report asserts the site is suitable for a wind farm.
Yet it admits:
- The possibility of negative effects on tourism cannot be ignored.
- The wind farm will be clearly visible to hill walkers on surrounding high hills and mountains.
- It will be visible from Ben Eighe in the west and Ben Wyvis in the east.
- The estate is surrounded by country identified as potential Areas of Great Landscape Value and Wild Land.
- Danger of Golden Eagles colliding with turbines.
- There is no guarantee that turbines will be made in the UK.
