A renewable energy proposal has been approved which will see a wind turbine erected in the Cairngorms National Park.
The Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) Planning Committee, meeting in Ballater today (Friday 22 July 2011) agreed a 20kw wind turbine and a temporary wind measuring mast could be put up at Faebuie, Cromdale.
CNPA Deputy Planning Committee Chairman Peter Argyle said: “We are very supportive of renewable energy schemes that are of an appropriate scale and nature for within the National Park. We look at each case on its own merits and in this instance the size and location of the single turbine has been assessed and deemed to be in keeping with the character of the existing landscape.”
The tri-blade wind turbine will measure 27 metres to the tip of the blade when vertical and be used to power a water pump for private houses and farm water troughs in the area with any excess power being sold to the grid.
Peter Argyle added: “We’re keen to help individuals, communities and businesses explore ways they might be able to generate energy from renewable sources and ways they can reduce their energy consumption.”
The CNPA has objected to large-scale wind farms proposed near the boundary of the National Park including Allt Duine near Kincraig. Planning Officer Andrew Tait said: “Recently we have been asked to comment on proposals for wind farms near the National Park and have expressed concern about the cumulative impact these would have on the landscape character of the area, the potential impact on protected species such as golden eagles, people’s enjoyment of this special place and potential negative impact on tourism.
“On assessment, the impact of this single turbine would be minimal and conditions have been attached to the planning consent to minimise disruption to birds including not erecting the mast during the breeding season and regular monitoring should take place with any collisions reported to us.”