Wind farm power line requires major tree felling

A new overhead line is being proposed from Glenmuckloch to Glenglass

A new overhead power line to link wind farms to the electricity network will require 50 hectares (120 acres) of trees to be felled along its path.

Dumfries and Galloway Council has decided to oppose the six mile (9.2km) Glenmuckloch to Glenglass scheme.

Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) has said that compensatory planting would be needed to make up for the felling.

The final say on whether the project can go ahead lies with the Scottish government.

The main reason behind the Scottish Power Energy Networks (Spen) proposal is to provide an additional link to the electricity network for a number of consented or operational wind farms in the area.

It would take about 16 months to construct, including the tree-felling operations.

The FLS has advised the Scottish government that compensatory planting should be a condition of planning approval.

It has said felling permission or a long-term amendment to the local forestry plan should also be sought in order to ensure sustainable management of the area.

A habitat management plan to help black grouse has been suggested

Developers want to clear a path 40m (130ft) either side of the line in order to minimise the risk of damage from trees being uprooted in the wind.

RSPB Scotland has also highlighted concerns about the potential impact on black grouse in the area.

It has not objected to the scheme, but has suggested a habitat management plan could be put in place.