More wind turbines are visible from Scotland’s countryside than ever before according to a new report from Scottish Natural Heritage. Turbines were visible from 35.6% of the country in 2010 as opposed to 31.6% in 2009 and 19.9% in 2008.
Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser has called for a more considered approach to the siting of wind turbines amid fears that new Scottish Government planning guidelines won’t go far enough.
Commenting Murdo Fraser MSP said:
“Scotland is reliant on its natural beauty for much of its trade and this should be protected before the effects of ill-placed wind turbines really start to bite.
“In the planning stage across Highland Perthshire are several poorly sited wind farm developments which could compromise the regions’ vital tourist industry.
“We must see greater balance in the energy policies of the Scottish Government and I would hope that the new planning guidelines act as a first step on the road to squaring the current issues in energy and planning policy.”