Ross MSP slams council's turbine guidance
A ROSS-SHIRE MSP has slammed as "a severe setback" new planning guidelines on domestic turbine installations across the north.
Caithness, Sutherland and Ross MSP Rob Gibson has hit out over guidelines on small scale wind turbines adopted by Highland after calling for clarity on acceptable noise levels for would-be applicants. He says he was following up on complaints from constituents across the constituency who have had their plans to erect domestic turbines stopped.
Responding to a letter from Geoff Robson, head of environment and development, Mr Gibson said "a lamentable lack of progress has been laid bare".
He said, "What I have uncovered is a risk-averse culture that has stalled or stopped dozens of applicants in their tracks. Since the introduction of the UK feed-in tariffs in April 2010 mini wind turbines have been assessed for noise issues on guidelines for large scale wind farms. This is a disgraceful roadblock on the Scottish Government’s aim for ambitious renewable energy targets into which domestic and small business applicants can take part.
"Industry talks with planners are taking place but individual planners are telling some applicants that certain types of wind turbines will not be acceptable. Since only one is available at this time, this is an incredible breach of the new guidelines being placed before the planning, environment and development committee at its September meeting. That states that 40dB [A] levels are totally acceptable.
"Other reasons to warn off applicants have been that if anyone moves into an area with an installed turbine they could object to noise issues and have the turbine switched off. This shows Highland planners are obstructing development on hypothetical assumptions, Meanwhile small businesses and domestic users are denied feed in tariffs.
"The urgency needed to make feed in work is totally lacking from Highland Council’s approach. I am writing to Energy and Planning ministers to give them a picture of this mess. I’m sure the small band of anti-wind farm protesters will rub their hands with glee at this Council attitude.
"To the vast majority of Highland residents its proof that standards around the country are interpreted here in the most conservative fashion. This only adds to my anger and frustration with the lack of political leadership in a council that needs to encourage and enable sustainable energy production at all levels. The SNP wants as many people in Scotland as possible to play their part in small and large scale renewables schemes. Clearly Highland Council is not on side."
Chairman of the planning, environment and development committee, Cllr Ian Ross told the Journal, "The Council is developing a consistent approach to the determination of planning applications for micro-renewables in the absence of Scotland wide guidance on the issue. This has been based on discussions with colleagues in environmental health and on industry standards, and gives a clear steer to potential applicants on the issues that we will assess in the determination of planning applications.
"As is the case with any development, we look for prospective developers to come and speak to us early before planning applications are submitted so that potential issues can be identified.
"We are actively discussing this issue with the renewables industry who are positively contributing to our emerging guidance.
"The development of renewables in appropriate locations is fully supported by the Council. The Planning, Environment and Development Committee will be debating this subject at a meeting on September 21
What do you think? Is Highland Council too conservative over turbines or adopting a sensible approach?
