Langholm wind farm turbine size increase plans approved

A council has approved revised plans for a wind farm near Langholm.

Developers want to cut the number of turbines in the Crossdykes project from 15 to 10 but increase them in size.

Planning officials had said that was a major departure from the original plans and would have a significant adverse visual impact on the landscape.

They had recommended refusal of the project but councillors voted 11-6 to give the changes the green light, with conditions attached.

They decided any additional impact of the taller turbines would be offset by the reduction in their number.

Councillors also took into account the potential socio-economic benefits of the proposals, the community support for the scheme and the contribution it would make to the Scottish government's renewable energy targets.

Community councils and residents had argued that the cut in turbines would create a less cluttered layout.

They also said the construction phase would be a boost for the local economy and the offer of 10% community ownership of the scheme would provide opportunities for the area.

Dumfries and Galloway Council previously approved the 15-turbine project but was being advised to turn down this version - which will see turbine height increase from 150m (500ft) to 176m (580ft).

However, councillors went against planning officer advice and decided to approve the scheme.