A MAJOR Swedish energy company will hold a fresh round of public consultations next month on new plans for a windfarm near Huntly.
An application from Europe’s fifth-largest electricity-generating business Vattenfall for an 18-turbine project at Clashindarroch Forest, between Huntly and Rhynie, has just been submitted to Aberdeenshire Council.
The move came just weeks after the firm held a “very successful” exhibition at Huntly. Vattenfall will now hold open exhibitions at Cabrach Primary School from 4-8pm on June 2, the Gordon Arms Hotel at Rhynie from 2-8pm the next day, and the Gordon Arms Hotel, Huntly, from 2-8pm on June 4.
David Rodger, the company’s project development manager, said yesterday: “Vattenfall employees are keen to meet the public and answer any questions they may have on the proposal, which would generate enough electricity to meet the demands of 27,670 households.
“Engaging with local communities is an integral part of the Vattenfall ethos. We are eager to listen to the queries and views of residents.
“We look forward to discussing how our proposals would result in the construction of wind turbines making a significant contribution to meeting Scotland’s clean energy targets, creating local economic benefits and helping the global effort to combat climate change.”
A previous 22-turbine windfarm application was launched by engineering and project management group Amec, which sold its wind energy division to Vattenfall last year, but planning permission for that scheme was refused after a public local inquiry.
Mr Rodger said the findings of the 2007 inquiry had been taken into account in developing new plans, with advice from Aberdeenshire planners.
Protest group the Friends of Clash opposed the previous windfarm scheme and has vowed to fight the Vattenfall proposals.
The group maintains Clashindarroch Forest, which is on the edge of the Cairngorms National Park, is an unsuitable site and the windfarm would adversely affect wildlife and the unspoiled appeal of the tourist area.