Peer hopes third time lucky for turbine plan

A FORMER deputy first minister has submitted controversial plans for three wind turbines in Aberdeenshire – for the third time.

Nicol Stephen, now Lord Stephen, who set up green energy firm Renewable Energy Ventures after his retirement from Holyrood last year, wants to build the 325ft masts near Alford.

Planning officers have twice had to send the application back to the former Aberdeen South MSP because of “factual inaccuracies” in the environmental statements.

His firm was forced to withdraw both applications but has now resubmitted the proposals – much to the dismay of local objectors, who claim it has been rushed through and still contains errors.

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