View east from slope of Olrig Hill
Page under development as we further study the application documents
Objections discussion
The above image says it all. The landscape view east from the slope of Olrig Hill is totally trashed if the Lochquoy turbine is consented.
But it is much worse for the local residents who are near the turbine.
This is a popular area with recreational cyclists yet there is little mention of them in the landscape report. A particularly popular route from Thurso is to come via Mountpleasant and descend the road from Olrig Hill towards the proposed turbine.
This turbine is not required. There is no significant contribution to UK energy production. It is simply an attempt to make money by landowners and the developer.
As far as we are aware public consultation on this application has been confined to a flyer sent to around half a dozen properties with an invite to a web based consultation.
This is a largely unaffected area of Caithness at high risk of being trashed by this application (1 x 150m turbine), Swarclett (2 x 150m turbines) and an application for 4 x 200m turbines on Olrig Hill (currently under scoping). It is time that the long outdated on-shore wind farm policy of Highland Council is updated to reflect an appropriate plan for preserving parts of Caithness and reflecting the views of the residents.
Farmer or got some land? Thinking of Agritourism? Here's what the position is -"The Scottish Government is actively supporting the growth of agritourism through the Scottish Agritourism Strategy and its implementation. This strategy aims to boost the sector's value, increase the number of participating farms, and enhance visitor experiences while promoting sustainable practices. Scottish Agritourism, the official body for the sector, plays a key role in providing leadership, support, and representation for agritourism businesses" You'll not want turbines then all over and around Olrig Hill then eh?
Click here for a document containing more comprehensive guidance for objectors
Nature issues
Furthermore there are important nature considerations. The significant Durran Loch and its associated ornithological visitors is close by to the north. This is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The associated wetlands extend as far as the turbine base area so any disturbance may have a drainage effect to the SSSI site.
Caithness Bird Club have been contacted and we hope they will submit an informed objection
Objection details: titled "The construction and operation of a wind turbine"; Reference 25/02477/FUL. Link to HC application documents Closing date 29th August.
Objections to Highland Council - eplanning@highland.gov.uk or mail to: ePlanning, The Highland Council, Glenurquhart Road, Inverness, IV3 5NX
Remember to include the reference number, your name and address and the fact that you object