Council opposes turbines near mountain bike trails

The council has agreed to oppose the project north of Dumfries

A council has agreed to object to plans for a wind farm near to one of a series of mountain bike centres across the south of Scotland.

Scottish Power Renewables wants to build 12 turbines as part of its Harestanes West wind farm close to the 7Stanes site at the Forest of Ae north of Dumfries.

However, Dumfries and Galloway Council's planning committee decided to oppose the project as a "very poor fit" for the surrounding landscape.

The final decision on whether the scheme can go ahead will lie with the Scottish government.

Councillors were told the wind farm had a lot of elements in its favour in terms of helping to meet renewable energy targets and economic benefits.

They heard it could meet the energy needs of more than 46,000 homes.

A planning report said that did not outweigh its adverse impact and recommended the local authority lodge an objection.

It said the wind farm would be "overly dominant" in the forest which would affect recreational visitors including those using the mountain bike trails.

It added that due to their size the turbines would be "discordant and confusing" and also raised concerns about the impact of aviation lighting which would be required.

A spokesperson for Scottish Power Renewables said: "We note the objection of Dumfries and Galloway Council and are disappointed with this decision.

"Harestanes West wind farm has the potential to deliver significant economic and community benefits for the region and would play an important role in providing part of the green electricity needed for the government's clean power ambitions."