Councillors approve six-turbine wind farm near Kirkconnel

Councillors have approved a wind farm in Dumfries and Galloway.

Rowancraig wind farm will see six turbines, with a maximum height of 180 metres (591ft), built on the Barr Moor near Kirkconnel.

Proposals were originally submitted by Koehler Renewable Energy (KRE) for eight turbines about two miles (3.5km) south west of Sanquhar.

But it was reduced to six following feedback received during the consultation process.

It is estimated over the construction and operational phases Rowancraig will generate up to £6.6m in spending within the local economy.

About 48 jobs will be created across Dumfries and Galloway and East Ayrshire, according to KRE.

Dumfries and Galloway Chamber of Commerce and the Royal Burgh of Sanquhar and District Community Council both supported the development.

The organisations were in favour of the economic and supply-chain opportunities it presents, as well as the developer's approach.

A community benefit fund, worth about £180,000 per year, depending on the wind farm's capacity, will benefit projects in the area.

KRE said conversations are under way with local groups, including education partners and charities, about how to use it.

Alan Matthewson, KRE UK director, said he is "delighted" Dumfries and Galloway Council approved the wind farm plans.

He said: "We've worked closely with politicians, stakeholders, and planning officers to refine and reflect comments presented at our consultation events, as well as feedback received from and to the Council.

"We believe that KRE UK's approach to community engagement, and the fantastic response we have had, represent the level of sincere, practical, and honest dialogue communities should expect from the developers proposing to work in communities in Scotland."

Jamie Shovelin from Dumfries and Galloway Chamber of Commerce added the proposals will provide apprenticeship and locally sourced jobs.

"The project will offer significant investment involving local business, and we look forward to working closely with KRE as matters progress," he said.

National Air Traffic Services (NATS) previously raised aviation concerns about the potential impact of the wind farm.

It said the proposals - for seven turbines as it stood at the time - could have an operational impact on Glasgow Prestwick Airport about 30 miles (48 km) away and would be unacceptable.

NATS warned the project could reduce radar capability to detect aircraft.

Prestwick Airport said although the development was outside its controlled airspace, it is an area which sees regular air traffic.