Wind farm plan in Kirkcudbright sparks 800 'for and against' responses

Planning officials oppose the building of five turbines, which would each be 115-metres tall, at Barcloy Hill

A proposed wind farm development near Kirkcudbright has generated nearly 800 letters from opponents and supporters of the scheme.

Planning officials are recommending refusal of the five-turbine scheme which they say would have an adverse impact on the landscape.

Renewable Energy Systems (RES) also wants to build a substation and wind speed masts at Barcloy Hill.

The proposed site falls within the Solway coastal regional scenic area.

The plans have generated 565 objections including one from the air navigation group NATS which is concerned about the impact the 115-metre tall turbines would have on the Lowther Hill Radar.

Other opponents highlight concerns about the visual impact of the development.

A further 230 letters have been lodged in support of the proposed wind farm.

Those backing the project say it would help towards the Scottish government target for renewable energy, have limited impact on the landscape and be in line with the council's development plan.

However, local authority planners say the turbines would be overwhelming in scale and detract from the character of the area.