Policy - Wind - Scotland - By Council
Created using original SCENE research, in collaboration with Docherty Consulting.
Scottish Local Council Development Policies
Aberdeen City
Aberdeenshire
Angus
Argyll & Bute
Clackmannanshire
Dumfries & Galloway
Dundee City
East Ayrshire
East Dunbartonshire
East Lothian
East Renfrewshire
City of Edinburgh
Falkirk
Fife
Glasgow City
Highland
Inverclyde
Midlothian
Moray
North Ayrshire
North Lanarkshire
Orkney Islands
Perth & Kinross
Renfrewshire
Scottish Borders
Shetland Islands
South Ayrshire
South Lanarkshire
Stirling
West Dunbartonshire
West Lothian
Western Isles (Eilean Siar)
Aberdeen City
Planning Information - A planning statement needs to be submitted with the planning application which evaluates the proposal against the following documents: Scottish Planning Policy; Aberdeen City and Shire Strategic Development Plan; Aberdeen City Council Local Development Plan; Scottish Governemnt's Planning Advice Note 45 Annex; Scottish Government's Specific Advice Sheet - onshore wind turbines; Scottish Natural Heritage's Siting and designing wind farms in the landscape; Aberdeen City Councils Supplementary Guidance on Wind Turbine Developments.
Technical Information - The detail and specification of the proposed wind turbine(s) will need to be provided. Detail will need to be given on: the type of turbine proposed; the rated generating capacity; the materials and colour of the wind turbine components; the foundations, material, depth and size; separation distances between turbines; ancillary equipment/structures (if proposed); construction and operational access requirements including details of access tracks, transmisison cable routes and borrow pits and details of any landscaping works proposed.
Environment, Archaeology and Conservation Areas - The impacts of proposed turbines on wildlife, habitat, ecosystems and biodiversity will need to be considered. Ecological assessments of proposed wind turbines will need to: outline any nature designations for the site or that may immediately adjoin it such as Sites of Scientific Interest, Special Protection Areas and Special Areas of Conservation; classify and evaluate the natural habitat and species; classify and evaluate the agricultural context; outline any hydrological impacts; evaluate the impact of a wind turbine(s) on these, and; discuss the scope of mitigation on the possible and proposed impacts. Any built and cultural heritage assets will have to be noted, and an assessment of any known or potential impacts carried out. Assets which need to be considered are: archaeological sites, listed buildings, conservation areas, historic gardens, designated landscapes and local sites of cultural importance.
Landscape and Visual Impact - Applicants need to: consider the character of the landscape, and outline if the proposed site is a ridge, hill, valley, coastal area and the vegetation present; evaluate the landscape on quality, value and scale terms; consider the impact of the wind turbine(s) on the landscape; consider the cumulative impact of the proposed application with regard to wind turbines that are already in existence or where planning permission has been approved. A visual assessment should be submitted. This should be carefully scoped so that it is appropriate to the size and scale of the development and the likelihood of significant landscape and visual impacts, including cumulative effects. The assessment should include: a viewpoint analysis; determination of the zone of theoretical visibility of the proposed development; evaluation of the visual impact; the scope for mitigation of those impacts, and; details of the location, visual impact and the restoration of borrow pits; consider the cumulative impact of the proposed application with regard to wind turbines that are already in existence or where planning permission has been approved. Evaluation of impacts should include consideration of alternative siting for the turbine(s) (as well as alternative colouring), borrow pits and ancillary equipment. Represented viewpoints of the proposal should cover both long and short range visibility and presentation by 'photomontage' or 'videomontage' is recommended. Individual circumstances will dictate the optimum position for wind turbines. This will be influenced by the size of the installation and its surrounding environment. The potential siting of the wind turbines close to, on, or integrated with buildings means special attention must be given to the need to protect amenity.
Local Amenity, Residents, Resources and Tourism - A noise assessment will have to take into account: the individual and cumulative effects of both the noise sources (mechanical noise produced by the gearbox, generator and other parts of the drive train, and the aerodynamic noise produced by the passage of the blades through the air); the character and sensitivities of the area ( including the prevailing winds, landform and particularly noise sensitive receptors such as dwellings). A noise assessment is not required for systems which are less than 20m to the hub and/or less than 32m to the tip of the blade. An assessment of potential shadow flicker and shadow throw throughout the year should be provided for all dwellings within a 10 rotor diameter of the proposed location of the wind turbine. Turbine developments will need to assess any visual and amenity impacts on tourist and recreational facilities or tourism and countryside access. Assessment will need to include the impacts on: core path network, footpaths, cyclepaths, bridleways and public paths.
Transport and Safety Considerations - Locating turbines a safe distance from any occupied structure, road, or public use area will mitigate the risk of ice throw. Warning signage may be a useful precaution. To inform the potential public safety risk of a wind turbine development an informal risk assessment of the proposed development should be submitted. This should take particular account of: proximity of surrounding buildings and roads, and; risk of injury to humans through catastrophic equipment failure or ice throw.
Electromagnetic Interference, Aviation and Communications - The British Aviation Authority, Civil Aviation Authority and Ministry of Defence should be consulted on proposed wind turbines in accordance with their guidance 'Wind energy and aviation interim guidelines'. These bodies will in turn consult other organisations that could have an interest in wind turbine proposals in terms of flight paths, radar and navigation aids, television and radio transmissions. Details of possible adverse effects and appropriate measures to alleviate effects should be submitted with the application.
Connection to the Grid - Access to the power electricity transmission and distribution system is required for commercial wind turbines. Micro-renewable turbines can be connected to the grid. Detail would be required on the proposed grid connection or supply to local user, if relevant.
Decommissioning - Detail will need to be given on proposals for decommissioning.
Other Issues - The applicant must demonstrate that the proposal is viable. It needs to be shown that there is enough wind speed and this can reasonably be predicted after monitoring the site. For micro-renewable turbines evidence and data from four months of monitoring will be required. Renewable turbines will require a longer monitoring period; typically 12 months will be necessary. A number of other issues will need to be considered when proposing development. These include: community consultation for renewable energy developments; local employment/business considerations; any associated community benefits, and cumulative impacts.
Community Benefit
Date of policy
No current policy.
Recommended payment per MW
No current policy.
Guidance on other benefits
- Supports the development of the community benefit register.
- They state that community benefit funds should have a high level of clarity and should create a tangible return for those most affected.
- Aberdeen City Council is a signatory of the Aalborg Commitment which is an action tool to reinforce the United Nations Local Agenda 21 action plan which promotes Sustainable Development.
Status (Adopted / In consultation)
No current policy.
Number of windfarms over 5MW
- None currently, focus on offshore developments.
Comments
None.
Link to council page: http://www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/home/home.asp
Link to council policy document: http://committees.aberdeencity.gov.uk/mgConvert2PDF.aspx?ID=16866
Aberdeenshire
Planning Information - No information available.
Technical Information - Full technical details of the turbines (including the proposed foundations), ancillary equipment/structures (if proposed), and proposals for decommissioning will be required. Details of temporary and permanent access requirements, including earthworks, for construction and maintenance will be required. Details of any proposed landscaping works should also be supplied.
Environment, Archaeology and Conservation Areas - Classification and evaluation of the natural habitat and species, and agricultural context, hydrological impact, determination of the zone of influence of the proposal, carbon emissions from disturbance of peat, evaluation of impacts, and the scope of mitigation of those impacts should be supplied. An ecological assessment will only be necessary for a single wind turbine if it were mounted on a tower and is located within a designated natural heritage site or it may adversely affect a protected species. A full assessment of any known or potential impacts on archaeological sites, listed buildings, conservation areas, historic gardens or designated landscapes or local sites of cultural importance should be given.
Landscape and Visual Impact - Landscape and townscape assessments should include classification and evaluation of the landscape context and/or townscape setting, including quality, value, and scale of the landscape/townscape. A landscape or townscape assessment will not be necessary for a single wind turbine that is not mounted on a tower. A landscape or townscape assessment will not be required for a development of three or less wind turbines mounted on a tower unless it were located within a designated landscape or a conservation area; a local or on-site borrow pit will be used for the construction based materials; or the turbine(s) will not be greater than 20m to hub and/or 32m to tip. A visual assessment will be required and should include a viewpoint analysis, determination of the zone of theoretical visibility of the proposed development, evaluation of the visual impact and the scope for mitigation of those impacts, and details of the location, visual impact and the restoration of borrow pits. Evaluation of impacts should include consideration of alternative siting for the individual turbines (as well as alternative colouring), borrow pits and ancillary development. Developers should consult with the Cairngorms National Park Authority where a proposed wind energy development will be sited on or adjacent to the National Park boundary/will be visible visible from the Park. Represented viewpoints of the proposals should cover both long and short range visibility and presentation by 'photomontage' or 'videomontage' is recommended. A detailed visual assessment (such as the use of photomontages) will not be necessary for a single wind turbine (either mounted on a tower building) unless it were located within a designated landscape, conservation areas or a town centre, or the turbine (if mounted on a tower) will be greater than 20m to hub and/or 32m to tip; visible from a popular tourist attraction; or within 1000m of an inhabited dwelling.
Local Amenity, Residents, Resources and Tourism - A noise assessment will require taking into account the particular character and sensitivities of the area (including the prevailing winds and landform) and both the individual and cumulative effects of the noise sources - the mechanical and aerodynamic. A noise impact assessment will be required if a proposed wind energy development will be mounted on a tower and is located within a settlement; 400m from an inhabited dwelling house; or where an initial assessment identifies a potentially significant adverse effect on other dwellings within 1000m of the proposed turbine(s). A noise assessment is not necessary for a small system. Turbine manufacturer's information on noise outputs of the particular model should be used. An assessment of potential shadow flicker and shadow throw throughout the year should be provided for all dwellings within a 1000m radius of the proposed location of each wind turbine. An assessment of any visual and amenity impacts on tourist and recreation facilities or tourism and countryside access (e.g. footpaths) should be supplied. An assessment on the cumulative effects of the proposal in a locality, which will either feed into other assessments (e.g. noise) or will be prepared as a separate document, on for example, cumulative visual or ecological impacts. The need for cumulative impact assessment(s) will be at the discretion of the local planning authority.
Transport and Safety Considerations - Depending on the scale of the proposal a risk assessment of the proposed developments should be submitted, taking particular account of proximity of any surrounding development, and risk of injury to humans through catastrophic equipment failure or ice throw. An informal risk assessment may be requested to ensure that the developer has considered this impact in order for mitigation measures to be proposed. For proposed wind farm developments, an assessment of any road safety as well as capacity implications of the proposal, including possible effects of the visual distraction caused by the turbines themselves will be required.
Electromagnetic Interference, Aviation and Communications - The applicant should consult with the British Aviation Authority, Civil Aviation Authority, Ministry of Defence and the Office of Communication who will in turn consult with bodies that could have an interest in the proposal in terms of flight paths, radar and navigation aids, television and radio transmissions. Details of possible adverse effects and appropriate measures to alleviate effects should be submitted.
Connection to the Grid - Details of the proposed grid connection or of supply to the local user are required, if relevant.
Decommissioning - Detail will need to be given on proposals for decommissioning.
Other Issues - Where there is concern about the siting of a wind turbine (e.g. its height or location in the built environment), the applicant must demonstrate that the proposal is viable i.e. that there is enough wind speed after a period of four to twelve months monitoring the site where this can be reasonably predicted. For all domestic scale applications or where the development will not be connected to the national grid, consideration should be given to the use of alternative renewable energy technologies. Other issues that should be considered include: community consultation; local employment/business considerations; associated community benefits; the need for a forestry design and management plan; and the visual impact of borrow pits and the need for a waste management license to dispose of waste in a borrow pit.
Community Benefit
Date of policy
No specific policy but covered by a policy dated 2011.
Recommended payment per MW
No set amount, examples between £1000 - £2000 per MW installed.
Guidance on other benefits
- Economic Development Strategy 2011-2016 states that Aberdeenshire aims to be a location of choice for the renewable sector.
- An objective of this strategy is that developments should support communities in becoming more self-sufficient and sustainable through the community benefits renewable energy can offer.
Status (Adopted / In consultation)
Adopted.
Number of windfarms over 5MW
- No exact figure but as of January 2012 capacity of >120MW had been installed with >200MW consented. Including the 75MW development at Midhill and the 50MW development at Clashindarroch.
Comments
Significant wind farm development is occurring in Aberdeenshire and the community benefit policy appears misaligned. Aberdeenshire Council to be contacted to confirm position.
Link to council page: http://www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/
Link to council policy document part 1: https://www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/planning/supplementary/wind_developers06.pdf
Link to council policy document part 2: https://www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/planning/supplementary/wind_assessing06.pdf
Angus
Planning Information - Applicants should present their rationale for site selection. Applicants should demonstrate that proposals are in locations where the technology can operate efficiently. Applicants should demonstrate that site selection considered all technical, environmental, amenity, visual and landscape impact mitigation where feasible.
Technical Information - The siting and appearance of apparatus should be chosen with the aim of minimising the impact on amenity, while respecting operational efficiency.
Environment, Archaeology and Conservation Areas - The development should have no unacceptable detrimental effect on any sites designated for natural heritage, scientific, historic or archaeological reasons. Access for construction and maintenance traffic should be able to be achieved without causing unacceptable permanent change to the environment and landscape. No wind turbines should cause unacceptable interference to birds, especially those that have statutory protection and are susceptible to disturbance, displacement or collision.
Landscape and Visual Impact - There should be not unacceptable adverse landscape and visual impacts having regard to landscape character, setting within the immediate and wider landscape, and sensitive viewpoints. The proposal must be capable of co-existing with other existing or permitted wind energy developments in terms of cumulative impact particularly on visual amenity and landscape, including impacts from development in neighbouring local authority areas.
Local Amenity, Residents, Resources and Tourism - When considering potential visual impact of wind energy proposals on residential amenity, Angus Council will use 2km as a guide. Within 2km of residential properties information required will depend on the scale and location of the individual proposal. There should be no unacceptable detrimental effect on residential amenity and existing land use by reason of shadow flicker, noise or reflected light. There should be no unacceptable impacts on the quantity or quality of groundwater or surface water resources during construction and operation of the development.
Transport and Safety Considerations - Access for construction and maintenance traffic should be able to be achieved without compromising road safety. There should be no unacceptable effect on road safety by reason of shadow flicker, noise or reflected light.
Electromagnetic Interference, Aviation and Communications - There should be no unacceptable environmental effects of transmission lines, within and beyond the proposed site. No wind turbines should interfere with authorised aircraft activity. No electromagnetic disturbance should be caused by the proposal to any transmitting or receiving system, or (where such disturbances may be caused) that measures will be taken to minimise or remedy any such interference.
Connection to the Grid - No information available.
Decommissioning - A realistic means of achieving the removal of any apparatus when redundant and the restoration of the site should be proposed. There should be no unacceptable impacts on the quantity or quality of groundwater or surface water resources during potential decommissioning of the development.
Other Issues - Applicants should demonstrate where site selection can enhance an area, and provide added value. This could include improving access, parking provision, visitor facilities on site such as interpretative facilities and amenities.
Community Benefit
Date of policy
No specific policy but covered by a policy dated 2009 (under review).
Recommended payment per MW
No set amount.
Guidance on other benefits
- Current advice: Where renewable energy schemes accord with policies in this local plan [ER34 and ER35] there may be opportunities to secure contributions from developers for community initiatives.
- Local Plan Policies currently under review as of January 2012 are:
- ER34: Renewable Energy Developments and;
- ER35: Wind Energy Development and those factors that will be taken into account in considering and advising on proposals for renewable energy projects in Angus.
- From this a specific approach to community benefit could emerge.
Status (Adopted / In consultation)
In consultation.
Number of windfarms over 5MW
- No developments >5MW.
Comments
The outcome of the current consultation is expected soon.
Link to council page: http://www.angus.gov.uk/
Link to council policy document: http://www.angus.gov.uk/renewableenergy/Finalised_Implementation_Guide_Renewable_Energy.pdf
Argyll & Bute
Planning Information - The Council will identify, with appropriate justification in the Local Plan, broad areas of search or, where appropriate, specific sites where wind energy development may be permitted. The Council will also indicate sensitive areas or sites which it is judged that for overriding environmental reasons, proposals for wind farms development would only be considered in exceptional circumstances.
Technical Information - No information available.
Environment, Archaeology and Conservation Areas - Proposals shall be encouraged where it can be demonstrated there is no significant adverse effect on the natural and historic environment.
Landscape and Visual Impact - Proposals shall be encouraged where it can be demonstrated there is no significant adverse effect on landscape character and visual amenity.
Local Amenity, Residents, Resources and Tourism - Proposals shall be encouraged where it can be demonstrated there is no significant adverse effect on local communities. Issues associated with the cumulative impact of wind farm and wind turbine developments will be addressed. This will be done in partnership with the industry and other interested parties including local communities.
Transport and Safety Considerations - No information available.
Electromagnetic Interference, Aviation and CommunicationsProposals shall be encouraged where it can be demonstrated there is no significant adverse effect on telecommunications, transmitting or receiving systems.
Connection to the Grid - No information available.
Decommissioning - No information available.
Other Issues - No information available.
Community Benefit
Date of policy
2005.
Recommended payment per MW
£2000 per installed MW, with an additional £1000 per MW based on actual annual output.
Guidance on other benefits
-- Funds to be split - 60% to local community, 40% to wider Argyll & Bute Area
- Online register of benefits published online.
- Council and developer agree a Strategic Concordat whereby developers voluntarily agree to provide funding to the community and the Argyll, Lomond and Island Energy Agency (ALI Energy).
- Community money to go into Community Wind Farm Trust Fund (CWFTF).
Status (Adopted / In consultation)
Adopted. Out for new consultations as of March 2012, consultation due to end May 2012.
Number of windfarms over 5MW
- 9 operational.
- 4 approved or under construction.
- 4 in planning.
- 4 scoping.
Comments
The outcome of the current consultation is expected soon.
Link to council page: http://www.argyll-bute.gov.uk/
Link to council policy document: http://www.argyll-bute.gov.uk/sites/default/files/planning-and-environment/Argyll%20and%20Bute%20Structure%20Plan%202002.pdf
Clackmannanshire
For overriding landscape character, built heritage and natural conservation areas, siting of wind turbines will not normally be acceptable in National Scenic Areas (NSAs), in Green Belts or in areas shown on the Structure Plan Renewable Energy Supplementary Key Diagram as 'Exclusion Areas'. These areas are: The Ochil Hills escarpment; The Touch - Gargunnock - Fintry Hills escarpments (including Lewis Hill); The Campsie Fells escarpments; Queen's View (Auchineden); Kippen Muir view; The settings of Abbey Craig - Wallace Monument, Stirling Castle, Bannockburn Memorial and battlefield, Sheriffmuir battlefield and Flanders Moss.
The remainder of the Structure Plan area will be regarded as an 'area of search' for development opportunities. Scope within the National Park is expected to be limited and developments there should demonstrate that the objectives of the designation of the Park and the overall integrity of the area will not be compromised. Within the 'area of search' it ill be for Local Plans, the National Park Plan and Supplementary Advice to set out all relevant consultation requirements and constraints. Local Plans will also further define the 'Exclusion Areas' and give guidance regarding development opportunities in 'buffer zones' around NSAs.
Proposals will not normally be acceptable where they would result in an adverse effect upon amenity, or features of scenic and/or heritage value, by reason of cumulative visual impact. It is advisable that potential developers also read the following environment-related policies, which can be found in Chapter 3 of the Structure Plan: Policy ENV1 - Nature Conservation, Policy ENV2 - Protected Landscapes, Policy ENV3 - Development in the Countryside, Policy ENV4 - Green Belts, Policy ENV5 - Environmental Enhancement and Policy ENV6 - The Historic and Built Environment.
Community Benefit
Date of policy
No current policy.
Recommended payment per MW
No set amount.
Guidance on other benefits
- Currently there is no set policy in place.
- NB. Clackmannanshire Council is working closely with the Partnership for Renewables aiming to develop a council owned wind development to benefit the community.
Status (Adopted / In consultation)
N/A.
Number of windfarms over 5MW
- 1 operational.
- 1 in planning.
Comments
Clackmannanshire Council to be contacted to confirm wind farm figures.
Link to council page: http://www.clacksweb.org.uk/
Link to council policy document: http://www.clacksweb.org.uk/property/structureplan/chapter3/14/
Dumfries & Galloway
Planning Information - No information available.
Technical Information - All proposals will be assessed for their impact on the landscape and visual amenity in relation to their design in terms of siting, layout, turbine form, colour, lighting and ancillary works. All proposals relating to ancillary developments will be assessed for their impact on the locality. Detailed consideration of all the ancillary elements of a scheme will be taken into account in the application process.
Environment, Archaeology and Conservation Areas - All proposals will be assessed for their impact on the historic environment and cultural heritage. Site-specific assessments will be required to identify potential issues and effects. Proposals should identify mitigation for identified effects. All proposals will be assessed for their impact on biodiversity, including protected species, ornithology and habitats. Site-specific assessments will be required to identify the biodiversity risks together with any on-site mitigations or off-site compensatory measures. All proposals will be assessed for their impact on forestry operations and where appropriate replanting schemes will be required to replace trees and woodland lost as a result of construction and the operational requirements of the windfarm/wind turbines subject to other considerations.
Landscape and Visual Impact - All proposals will be assessed for potential impacts on landscape and visual amenity. Particular attention will be given to proposals within areas designated for their landscape qualities and to how the proposals will impact on the special qualities and/or reasons for such designations. All proposals will be assessed for their cumulative impact on landscape and visual amenity.
Local Amenity, Residents, Resources and Tourism - All proposals will be assessed for their impact on local amenity and communities in relation, but not restricted, to the effects of noise, shadow flicker and visual dominance relative to all affected properties, considered in conjunction with any mitigation measures proposed. All proposals will be assessed for their impact on the interests of tourism and recreation. Developers should identify any significant adverse affects on tourism and recreational interests and on the underlying factors which contribute to the appeal of such destinations to visitors and recreational users. All proposals will be assessed for their impact on the physical constraints in relation to the site including such aspects as soil and ground stability, the effect on water resources, how waste from excavations will be addressed and geodiversity.
Transport and Safety Considerations - No information available.
Electromagnetic Interference, Aviation and Communications - All proposals will be assessed for their impact on aviation and defence interests. Applicants must consult in detail with aviation and defence stakeholders such as Ministry of Defence, Civil Aviation Authority, NATS (National Air Traffic Services) and Airport Operators Association to ascertain the degree of constraint relevant to the development proposal. Applicants should also ensure that these bodies are satisfied with the proposal, that no material impact will occur or that a technical solution will be used to mitigate any issue that is deemed satisfactory to all interested parties. Suspensive conditions may be utilised to address navigation, radar or other aviation/MoD concerns in appropriate circumstances. All proposals will be assessed for their impact on broadcasting installations. Applicants should consult with network owners and Ofcom to ascertain the location of radio and television broadcasting installations within the region and ensure that they are satisfied with the proposal, that no material impact will occur or that a technical solution will be used to mitigate any issue of broadcast interference, that is deemed satisfactory to all interested parties.
Connection to the Grid - No information available.
Decommissioning - All proposals will be assessed in relation to the reinstatement of the site at the end of the development along with any ancillary works. Reinstatement details must be submitted with any development proposals.
Other Issues - No information available.
Community Benefit
Date of policy
2005.
Recommended payment per MW
>£2000.
Guidance on other benefits
- 60:40 split of funds between local community (15km of farm) and region.
- Fund to be used to support a low carbon economy, as well as the environment, culture & tourism, affordable housing, community transport, improved broadband and the economy.
- Encourage communities to take an equity stake in wind farms, managed through a community trust or similar.
- Maintain a developer contributions officer.
- Aid communities in ensuring that any negotiating bodies have the financial and technical expertise necessary.
Status (Adopted / In consultation)
Adopted.
Number of windfarms over 5MW
- 9 operational.
- 9 approved or under construction.
- 18 in planning.
Comments
None.
Link to council page: http://www.dumgal.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=1
Link to council policy document: http://www.dumgal.gov.uk/CHttpHandler.ashx?id=7343&p=0
Dundee City
Dundee City Council currently has no policies relating to wind energy development projects.
Community Benefit
Date of policy
No current policy.
Recommended payment per MW
No set amount.
Guidance on other benefits
- No set guidance available.
Status (Adopted / In consultation)
N/A.
Number of windfarms over 5MW
- No developments >5MW.
Comments
None.
Link to council page: http://www.dundeecity.gov.uk/
East Ayrshire
East Ayrshire Council will assess all applications for wind farm developments, including extensions to existing, consented and / or operational wind farms, against the provisions of Policy ECON 7 of the approved Ayrshire Joint Structure Plan: Growing a Sustainable Ayrshire. Policy ECON 7 states: (i) In the Areas of Search, proposals for large and small wind farm developments will be supported subject to specific proposals satisfactorily addressing all other material considerations; (ii) Areas designated for their national or international heritage value, and green belts, will be afforded significant protection from large scale wind farms; (iii) The integrity of national and international designations should not be compromised and; (iv) Cumulative impact will be assessed in all relevant cases, taking into account existing wind farms, those which have permission and those that are the subject of valid but undetermined applications. The weight to be afforded to undetermined applications will reflect their position in the application process. Where the limit of acceptable cumulative impact has been reached, the area will be afforded significant protection.
Outside Areas of Search all wind farm proposals will be assessed against the following constraints, any positive or adverse effects on them and how the latter can be overcome or minimised: (1) Historic environment; (2) Areas designated for their regional and local natural heritage value; (3) Tourism and recreational interests; (4) Communities; (5) Buffer zones; (6) Aviation and defence interests; (7) Broadcasting installations.
Proposals affecting Sensitive Landscape Character Areas should satisfactorily address any impacts on the particular interests that the designation is intended to protect but the designation should not unreasonably restrict the overall ability of the plan area to contribute to national targets. In all cases, applications for wind farms should be assessed in relation to criteria including, as appropriate, grid capacity, impacts on the landscape and historic environment, ecology (including birds), biodiversity and nature conservation, the water environment, communities, aviation, telecommunications, noise and shadow flicker.
In order to help developers minimise the environmental and visual impact of their wind farm proposals, the Council intends, in conjunction with North and South Ayrshire Councils, to prepare detailed supplementary guidance pertaining to the cumulative impacts of wind farm developments. The supplementary guidance to be prepared will be adopted by the Council, following discussion and engagement as a material consideration in the assessment of all new wind farm proposals and developers will be expected to pay due regard to the provisions of the guidance in the formulation of their proposed developments.
Community Benefit
Date of policy
2007.
Recommended payment per MW
£2,500 per MW produced per annum.
Guidance on other benefits
- Requires wind farm developers to contribute to a dedicated Renewable Energy Fund (REF) administered by the Council.
- REF to be used to fund sustainable community projects.
- For a period of 5 years from the commencement of construction work, all contributions will be directed exclusively to local projects within 10km of the boundary of the wind farm.
- Thereafter, 50% will be directed towards local projects with 50% being reserved for use in the wider East Ayrshire area.
Status (Adopted / In consultation)
Adopted.
Number of windfarms over 5MW
- 5 operational.
- 4 approved or under construction.
- 6 in planning.
- A further 1000MW (400+) turbines are at the scoping stage or awaiting a S36 decision.
Comments
None.
Link to council page: http://www.east-ayrshire.gov.uk/Home.aspx
Link to council policy document volume 1: http://www.east-ayrshire.gov.uk/Resources/PDF/L/LP2010Volume1.pdf
Link to council policy document volume 1: http://www.east-ayrshire.gov.uk/Resources/PDF/L/LP2010Volume2.pdf
East Dunbartonshire
East Dunbartonshire Council currently has no policies relating to wind energy development projects.
Community Benefit
Date of policy
No current policy.
Recommended payment per MW
No set amount.
Guidance on other benefits
- No set guidance on community benefit.
Status (Adopted / In consultation)
N/A.
Number of windfarms over 5MW
N/A.
Comments
No windfarms in council area.
Link to council page: http://www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk/home.aspx
East Lothian
Planning Information - No information available.
Technical Information - Most of the turbines erected have a light grey colour as it is generally felt that this colour achieves the best balance between minimising visibility and visual impacts when seen against the sky and a variety of backgrounds. The use of coloured and multi coloured turbines such as green browns and ochres in an attempt to disguise wind turbines against a landscape backloth is generally felt to be unsuccessful and should be avoided. Installation of transformers and control cabinets may also be required. The impact of any overhead lines from the turbine to control cabinets and grid connections should also be taken into account. Such power lines should be placed underground where possible.
Environment, Archaeology and Conservation Areas - Any proposal for a wind turbine near or within the curtilage of a listed building must ensure that the listed building remains the focus of its setting and is not harmed by the presence of the proposed turbine. Public views of or from listed buildings should not be obstructed by wind turbines. Proposals detrimental to the character and appearance of Conservation Areas will not be supported. Wind turbine developments which would harm the character, appearance and setting of sites listed in the Inventory of Gardens and Designed Landscapes will be resisted. The overarching premise of the SPP, Scottish Historic Environment Policy and the Development Plan is that development that has a significantly adverse effect on the historic environment should not be supported. Wind turbine development that would harm a scheduled ancient monument or archaeological site, or their setting, or other designated historic interest, will not normally be permitted. Considerations of setting will include a site’s relationship with the surrounding landscape, its visual relationship with other monuments or landmarks and the extent to which its function as a significant landmark might be compromised by the scale and location of a proposed wind turbine. Sites or species designated or protected for their biodiversity or nature conservation interest will be protected in accordance with development plan policy. Proposals for wind turbines must have regard to both their site-specific and wider impacts.
Landscape and Visual Impact - Wind turbine development must not harm the landscape setting of settlements, important public views of these settlements and prominent public views of these settlements to the surrounding countryside. Wind turbines have the potential for significant landscape and visual impacts. Such developments will only be supported where the overall integrity and setting of key public views to and from landmark features, both natural and man-made, will not be compromised. Developments which would harm the character, appearance, and setting of significant natural landscape features, landmark buildings and structures will be resisted. Turbines must be sited and designed so that they relate to their setting; that any adverse effects on visual amenity and landscape are minimised and that areas which are valued for their landscapes and scenery are protected. The Council will assess the impact of all wind turbine proposals on the landscape character of the rural landscape, potential impact on views, how they integrate into the rural landscape and the extent to which they affect the character and sense of place of the local area. Green Belt views, skylines and the elements which make up these views will be protected from inappropriate wind turbine development. Turbine developments that harm the landscape character and appearance of Areas of Great Landscape Value (AGLVs) or require the removal of trees and hedgerows to the detriment of landscape character will be resisted.
While wind turbines are a new form of development in the countryside, they will be supported where they are environmentally acceptable. Having a regard to their inevitable prominence, wind turbine proposals must be acceptable in terms of scale and character for their proposed location and must be well integrated into the landscape, reflect its character and quality of place and be compatible with its surroundings. The capacity of the rural landscape to absorb wind turbines is a key consideration. Locating smaller turbines near groupings of existing structures such as agricultural buildings or silos may allow for a better integration into the landscape as long as the setting and scale of buildings and structures is not compromised. Expansive, open areas, with few prominent existing features, may have a greater capacity to accommodate larger turbines without appearing out of scale with their surroundings. However the visual impact of a turbine development on views of significant natural and manmade features in the landscape will require careful consideration. The Council will resist any development which will have a detrimental impact on views of or the landscape setting of significant natural features, buildings and structures in the landscape. Turbines must not appear incongruous or dominate the local landscape when viewed from a range of public places. They must be capable of being accommodated within an open landscape without detriment to landscape character. They must not result in a change of landscape character from a predominantly agricultural landscape to one that is a landscape dominated by wind turbines: cumulative impact will be a particular issue here.
The council will resist any proposed turbine development which is out of scale and incongruous within its landscape setting and detrimental to the existing landscape character of coastal areas. Development proposals which would have a detrimental impact on views out across the Firth of Forth, and views along the coastline will not be supported. Proposals which would result in a clutter of visual features in the coastal landscape e.g. with wind power lines, large buildings, chimneys and structures will be resisted as will locations which would result in the visual or physical coalescence of settlements, or industrial buildings. The landscape setting and views of significant buildings and structures in the coastal landscape will be protected.
Local Amenity, Residents, Resources and Tourism - Guidance on shadow flicker is provided in Planning Advice note PAN 45. PAN 45 also recommends setting noise limits at noise sensitive properties and noise limits set to background noise. Generally noise limits should be at the closest turbine and limits should reflect the variation in both noise and background noise with wind speed. As wind speed increases so generally does noise from turbines and background noise although not in all cases so the assessment needs to be site specific. Pre-application discussion is recommended with the Council's Environmental Protection team.
Transport and Safety Considerations - Pre-application discussions are advisable with the Scottish Executive [Road Network MAnagement and Maintenance Division] for proposed wind turbine developments in proximity to trunk roads and East Lothian Council for all other publicly maintained roads. Driver distraction may, in some circumstances, be a consideration. Although wind turbines erected in accordance with best engineering practice should be stable structures, it is desirable to achieve a set-back from roads, railways and public footpaths. Wind turbines are often proposed on sites with limited access and this aspect also requires consideration.
Electromagnetic Interference, Aviation and Communications - East Lothian is over flown regularly by military and civilian aircraft. Micro-light aircraft operate out of East Fortune Airfield. In some circumstances it may be necessary to light wind turbines for reasons of civil aviation or military aviation safety. Where this is necessary this should be designed to minimise unnecessary light spillage, while satisfying safety and navigational requirements.
Scottish Power Energy Networks will object to the positioning of wind turbines located within 3 x the turbine blade diameter from power lines. If a developer wishes to site turbines closer than this, prior agreement must be reached with Scottish Power Energy Networks. Proximity to high pressure gas pipelines may also be an issue: the Health & Safety Executive advise that turbines should be a distance equal to the height of the whole structure away from the edge of the pipe.
Connection to the Grid - No information available.
Decommissioning - No information available.
Other Issues - No information available.
Community Benefit
Date of policy
No current policy.
Recommended payment per MW
No set amount.
Guidance on other benefits
- No guidance on community benefit provided.
Status (Adopted / In consultation)
N/A.
Number of windfarms over 5MW
- 1 operational (1 overlapping East Lothian and Scottish Borders boundaries).
- 1 under construction.
- 1 refused.
Comments
None.
Link to council page: http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/
Link to council policy docement: http://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/site/scripts/download_info.php?downloadID=1389
East Renfrewshire
East Renfrewshire Council currently has no policies relating to wind energy development projects.
Community Benefit
Date of policy
No current policy.
Recommended payment per MW
No set amount.
Guidance on other benefits
- No set policy on community benefits, but has adopted a community fund approach towards the only operational wind farm in the council area.
- Whitelee wind farm has created a community fund to the value of £140,000 per annum, which is administered by the council environment department.
Status (Adopted / In consultation)
N/A.
Number of windfarms over 5MW
- 1 operational.
Comments
None.
Link to council page: http://www.eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=1489
City of Edinburgh
Proposals for development for the generation of wind energy will be permitted unless there would be unacceptable harm to a designated or proposed Special Area of Conservation, Special Protection Area or Ramsar site, a Site of Special Scientific Interest, or other area of national importance or any of the following environmentally significant areas: The Green Belt; The Pentland Hills Regional Park; Areas of Great Landscape Value; Local Nature Reserves or Sites of Interest for Nature Conservation; Historic and Designed Landscapes; Scheduled Ancient Monuments or other Areas of Archaeological Significance and their settings; Listed Buildings, Conservation Areas and their settings; Prime Agricultural land, or where the viability of a farm unit would be threatened; Water Catchment Areas and; Peatland.
Proposed developments should not: (i) unacceptably affect the amenity of local residents in terms of noise emission, light intrusion or visual dominance; (ii) result in an unacceptable level of traffic generation to the detriment of amenity and road safety and; (iii) be unacceptable in terms of siting, design, and landscaping details, taking account of operational requirements.
Where a proposed development is likely to have significant effects on the environment, the Council will decide whether an Environmental Assessment should be undertaken. In the event that a proposal cannot be reconciled with the protection of important environmental assets and other interests, the Council will not permit development unless the developer can demonstrate specific environmental, social or economic benefits of national significance. All proposals for wind turbine developments will be referred to the operator of Edinburgh Airport.
Community Benefit
Date of policy
No current policy.
Recommended payment per MW
No set amount.
Guidance on other benefits
- No guidance available.
- Area highlighted as only suitable for small scale renewables.
Status (Adopted / In consultation)
N/A.
Number of windfarms over 5MW
N/A.
Comments
None.
Link to council page: http://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/
Link to council policy document: http://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/site/custom_scripts/google_results.php?q=renewable%20energy&startNum=0&filter=p
Falkirk
Falkirk Council currently has no policies relating to wind energy development projects.
Community Benefit
Date of policy
No current policy.
Recommended payment per MW
One project is set to grant £5,000 per MW installed.
Guidance on other benefits
- No set community benefit policy.
Status (Adopted / In consultation)
N/A.
Number of windfarms over 5MW
- 2 in planning.
- 3 scoping.
- A further 6 are located in other Councils but cross over into the Falkirk boundary.
Comments
None.
Fife
Planning Information - Fife Council Services, especially Environmental Services and Transportation Services must be consulted, as should bodies such as the Civil Aviation Authority and Ministry of Defence, responsible for air safety and radar installations. Other agencies such as Scottish Natural Heritage, Historic Scotland, Scottish Environment Protection Agency, Health and Safety Government, Transport Scotland, Forestry Commission Scotland, Rail Authority and electricity transmission / distribution operator should be consulted as appropriate. Proposals must be supported by maps showing the zones of visual impact. Visualisations of the proposed development are required and animated computer generated images may be requested.
Technical Information - No information available.
Environment, Archaeology and Conservation Areas - Wind turbine/wind farm developments will not be supported in designated natural heritage protection areas including Ramsar sites, Special Areas of Conservation, Special Protection Areas and Sites of Special Scientific Interest or in location, advised to Fife Council by Scottish Natural Heritage, which play a supporting role to these designated areas. Large lengths of the Fife Coastline and one inland site are designated Natura 2000 sites and proposals which could affect the qualifying habitats and qualifying species are likely to require to be the subject of an appropriate assessment. An assessment of the effect on qualifying species of Natura 2000 sites in adjacent authority areas will also be required.
Areas of historical significance, including Scheduled Ancient Monuments, non-statutory sites, Monuments Register Sites, Archaeological Sites and Areas of Regional and Local Importance, will be protected from insensitive and inappropriate forms of development. Important built heritage features such as sites included in the Inventory of Gardens and Designed LAndscapes and non-Inventory historic gardens and designed landscapes recorded in Fife Council's Sites and Monuments Record will, also be protected.
Wind turbine/wind farm developers should seek to site turbines where the air flow is laminar or streamline as turbulent flow can cause damaging vibration. As trees and woodlands can cause turbulent air flows, prospective developers are likely to seek to secure the clear felling of commercial or amenity timber. Whilst Fife Council has no direct control over timber planting or felling, proposals that would result in the net loss of woodland will not be supported in preferred and potential areas identified in the Fife Indicative Forestry Strategy without compensatory replacement planting. Reference should also be made to Scottish Government's guidance policy on the control of woodland removal.
Landscape and Visual Impact - Developers are expected to demonstrate to the satisfaction of Fife Council that proposals will not result in unacceptable impacts resulting from cumulative impact. Developers will produce a cumulative base plan of all known wind energy schemes within 60km of the proposed development but should consider and take particular account of other turbine developments over 15 metres in height that are operational, consented or are in the planning process within a 30 kilometre radius. Applicants will submit the necessary information to Fife Council as part of a Landscape and Visual Assessment of an EIA when submitting a planning application. Fife Council will assess cumulative impact by examining a number of factors based upon: (i) the effect proposals will have on the physical fabric and on the character of Fife's landscape and; (ii) the effect proposals will have on visual amenity in terms of combined visibility or through sequential effect.
Local Amenity, Residents, Resources and Tourism - The issue of the proximity of turbines to settlements, occupied residential and institutional properties will be evaluated when applications for proposals are being determined. Single turbines should be located up to 10 rotor diameters from residential properties to ensure that there are no problems with shadow flicker; however detailed information on site specific circumstances based upon likely noise, visual impact and shadow flicker may challenge the requirements for this general approach. Mechanical noise can be reduced through engineering design. Good acoustical design and siting of turbines is essential to ensure that any increase in noise levels is within acceptable levels, to ensure they do not have an unacceptable affect on the environment and any nearby noise-sensitive properties. Turbines should not be sited so that they cause shadow flicker at dwellings or other sensitive properties. However, if a turbine must be sited in a particular location, the timing of shadow flicker events can be calculated, and, if necessary and appropriate, planning conditions can specify turbines are shut down for specific time periods or other mitigation measures as appropriate.
Particular attention should be given to the protection of the landscape setting of towns, villages, conservation areas and listed buildings to ensure that wind turbine proposals are appropriate to the scale and setting of settlements and to protect them from inappropriate wind turbine development. Account must be taken of the potential impact of turbine proposals on the scale and setting of historic landmark buildings, such as the spires of churches, when viewed from key public receptor viewpoints such as roads, railways, paths and areas of public recreation and tourism importance. Considerations of setting will include a site's relationship with the surrounding landscape, its visual relationship with other monuments or landmarks and the extent to which its function as a significant landmark might be compromised by the scale and location of a proposed wind turbine.
The development of a wind farm may offer the opportunity to create visitor centres and viewing points such as has been created at the Whitelee wind farm near Glasgow. The tourism and educational potential offered by such developments could provide additional spin-off benefit for the local economy and Fife Council would b happy to discuss the potential for such facilities.
Transport and Safety Considerations - Consideration of the risks associated with structural failure and 'icing' identifies the clear need to incorporate a safety margin in the offset between the trunk road boundary and the siting of a wind turbine. Therefore, it is appropriate to achieve a setback from the nearest highway boundary equal in distance to their height + 10% for micro and small turbines. Commercial turbines should be set back a distance equal to their height + 50 metres. A number of pipelines across Fife and appropriate stand-off distances will be determined in consultation with the operator and the Health and Safety Executive. Similar measures will be considered on turbine proximity to power transmission cables and pylons.
For all roads any potential for visual distraction should be minimised, not by screening but rather by the provision of a clear, continuous view of the wind farm that develops over the maximum possible length of approach carriageway. The potential for distraction may be greater than with other roadside features but a clear view will considerably reduce the temptation for drivers to turn their heads when passing the towers. Sites where the topography, vegetation or buildings might conceal the view of the turbines until the last minute should be avoided as drivers may be distracted suddenly and take their attention from the road and other traffic.
Electromagnetic Interference, Aviation and Communications - Turbines that cause disruption to television signals will only be acceptable provided developers meet the costs of any mitigation measures or alternative arrangements. In the instance where there is likely to be an impact on television reception developers will be expected to meet the necessary costs to rectify the situation.
The ministry of Defence (MOD) should be consulted if a proposed wind turbine is 11 metres to blade tip or taller, or has a rotor diameter of 2 metres or more. Turbines which would have an adverse effect on aircraft navigation (military or civilian) and other radar installations used for health and safety applications will not be supported unless mitigation measures for radar and flight paths can be agreed with National Air Traffic Services (NATS) and airport authorities.
Connection to the Grid - Embedded generation units are unlikely to require lengthy links to the power transmission system, but other developments may require lengths of transmission cables. The routing and scale of transmission lines linking renewable energy developments and the national grid will be taken into account when considering proposals. This will be applicable to overground transmission cables only. Underground cabling can also be a solution and can reduce visual impacts of a development. Underground cabling solutions will be considered acceptable where they do not have a detrimental impact on environmental designations, groundwater resources or private water supplies.
Decommissioning - No information available.
Other Issues - Other issues, which will be considered at the time of the application, include sources and supply of construction materials, road access, including internal roads and effect on groundwater, bodies of standing water and watercourses. On-site and off-site power transmission issues, such as the location of sub stations and pylon/overhead line routes must be evaluated.
Community Benefit
Date of policy
2012.
Recommended payment per MW
Between £2,500 - £4,000 per MW installed depending on project merits.
Guidance on other benefits
- Fife Council published a guidance note on community benefit in March 2012.
- Proposal WE2 in the Fife Wind Energy SPG outlines that Fife Council will prepare customer guidance notes based upon emerging Scottish Government guidance.
Status (Adopted / In consultation)
Adopted and working on future guidelines.
Number of windfarms over 5MW
- 1 consented.
- 5 in planning.
Comments
None.
Link to council page: http://www.fifedirect.org.uk/
Link to council policy document: http://publications.1fife.org.uk/uploadfiles/publications/c64_WindEnergyfinal1.pdf
Glasgow City
Glasgow City Council currently has no policies relating to wind energy development projects.
Community Benefit
Date of policy
No current policy.
Recommended payment per MW
No set amount.
Guidance on other benefits
- No set guidance on community benefit.
Status (Adopted / In consultation)
N/A.
Number of windfarms over 5MW
N/A.
Comments
None.
Highland
Planning Information - It is advisable for developers to contact Highland Council at an early stage in the selection and design of potential sites for pre-scoping. Such consultation can usefully inform all parties prior to site selection, more detailed project descriptions and the next stages of potential EIA screening and scoping processes. When submitting an application, applicants should provide the appropriate fee and sufficient copies of any supporting information for statutory consultees. In particular, it is important to make sure that site boundaries are correctly identified as some forms of renewable energy development can include works outside the main site, for example highway improvements necessary to allow the delivery of large turbine components. Where an Environmental Statement is required (or provided voluntarily) this should also be included.
Technical Information - No information available.
Environment, Archaeology and Conservation Areas - Any proposal for a wind energy development likely to have a significant effect on a European site (Special Area of Conservation, Special Protection Area or Ramsar site) should be accompanied by sufficient information to enable Highland Council to carry out an appropriate assessment under the Conservation (Natural habitats) Regulations 1994. Developments may only be permitted if the Council can conclude that it as well as its associated infrastructure would not have an adverse effect proposals on the integrity of any European site unless there are no alternative solutions and there are imperative reasons of overriding public interest for doing so.
Landscape and Visual Impact - Any proposal for a wind energy development must show that it will not have a significant adverse effect on: local landscape character; any Special Landscape Areas; any National Scenic Area; important public views; and the setting of any Scheduled (Ancient) Monument; Designed Landscape, listed building or conservation area and other historic sites as agreed with Highland Council.
Local Amenity, Residents, Resources and Tourism - Highland Council encourages turbines associated with large-scale wind energy developments to be located at a distance of at least 2km from the development boundaries of settlements.
Transport and Safety Considerations - Any proposal for a wind energy development should not have a significant adverse effect on the public road network. Ideally locations should be chosen that have spare capacity in the road network to carry abnormal loads (i.e. construction traffic).
Electromagnetic Interference, Aviation and Communications - There should be no significant adverse effect on airport, defence or emergency service operations (i.e. navigation systems). The siting of wind turbines must also have regard to radio, TV, telecoms and other communication systems. Developments shall be assessed by consultation with relevant operators and may require developers to correct any electromagnetic interference at their own expense.
Connection to the Grid - No information available.
Decommissioning - Landowners of a proposed windfarm site must have access to funds to restore their land at the end of the operational life of the development. These should be secured either by bond of caution (Bond) or by irrevocable letter of credit (LoC) from an appropriate bank.
Other Issues - No information available.
Community Benefit
Date of policy
2012.
Recommended payment per MW
£5000.
Guidance on other benefits
- Funds to be distributed between local level (55%), area level (30%) and pan-Highland level (15%).
- No prescription on how funds should be administered.
- Council is willing to step in as an administrator of funds if communities fail, but prefers if communities take an active role in administering funds.
- £5000 is a baseline figure, and other forms of benefit should also be considered for communities.
Status (Adopted / In consultation)
Adopted.
Number of windfarms over 5MW
- 23 operational.
- 16 approved or under construction.
- 23 in planning.
- 2 under appeal.
- 28 scoping.
- 11 refused.
- 8 withdrawn.
Comments
None.
Link to council page: http://www.highland.gov.uk/
Link to council policy document: http://www.highland.gov.uk/yourenvironment/planning/developmentplans/developmentplanpolicyguidance/windenergyspg.htm
Inverclyde
Planning Information - No information available.
Technical Information - Development plan policies should be based on the principle that wind farms should be accommodated where technology can operate efficiently and environmental and cumulative impacts can be addressed satisfactorily.
Environment, Archaeology and Conservation Areas - Wind turbine developments which are likely to have an inpact on environmentally protected areas of Inverclyde including one on-shore internationally designated Natura 2000 Special ProtectionArea (SPA) and 7 nationally designated Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) (covering a combined area of 831 hectares) must have an Appropriate Assessment undertaken to assess the implications for the conservation interests of the site. Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park (CMRP), (covering 781 hectares) and West Renfrew Hills Scenic Area (covering 77 hectares) are regionally designated areas within Inverclyde. While not afforded the same high protection as international and national designations, these areas are valued for their scenic qualities and their recreational opportunities and therefore proposals will be looked upon with more sensitivity.
Landscape and Visual Impact - No information available.
Local Amenity, Residents, Resources and Tourism - A 2km buffer is proposed around communities to provide enough distance that turbines can merge with the landscape and reduce the visual impact, but will be unnecessary in cases when topography will reduce the impact.
Transport and Safety Considerations - No information available.
Electromagnetic Interference, Aviation and Communications - Developers must maintain or accommodate for the transition of radio and television signals which may be disrupted by wind turbine development. Early consultation with the relevant network provider would be expected.
Connection to the Grid - No information available.
Decommissioning - No information available.
Other Issues - No information available.
Community Benefit
Date of policy
No current policy.
Recommended payment per MW
N/A.
Guidance on other benefits
- No set guidance on community benefit.
Status (Adopted / In consultation)
N/A.
Number of windfarms over 5MW
- 0 operational.
- 1 withdrawn.
- 1 refused.
Comments
None.
Link to council page: http://www.inverclyde.gov.uk/
Link to council policy document: http://www.inverclyde.gov.uk/planning-and-the-environment/planning/renewable-energy?pg=2
Midlothian
Planning Information - No information available.
Technical Information - No information available.
Environment, Archaeology and Conservation Areas - Renewable energy developments will be permitted if they do not cause a significant adverse effect upon areas of nature conservation interest and the following protected areas: Conservation Areas, Scheduled Ancient Monuments, Listed Buildings, Historic Gardens and Designed Landscapes, significant archaeological sites, Pentland Hills Regional Park, prime agricultural land, the Green Belt, Areas of Great Landscape Value, peatland and water supply catchment areas.
Landscape and Visual Impact - Due to existing wind developments, cumulative landscape and visual effects would make the following sites highly sensitive to further wind development: North and Lower South Esk, Upper South Esk / Tyne Water, Mayfield / Tranent Ridge, Musselburgh / Prestonpans Fringe, Rosewell/Carrington Spur, North Lammermuir Platform, Moorland Fringes, Lowland Moorlands, Plateua Grasslands, Moorfoot hills and Pentland Hills.
Local Amenity, Residents, Resources and Tourism - Developments will not be permitted if theyhave an unacceptable effect on the amenity of nearby residential properties or on the wider environment by reason of landscape and/ or visual impact, noise, safety, traffic generation or pollution control. Developments not be permitted if they demonstrably damage the local economy in terms of tourism or recreation of the Midlothian area.
Transport and Safety Considerations - No information available.
Electromagnetic Interference, Aviation and Communications - No information available.
Connection to the Grid - No information available.
Decommissioning - Applications must include a realistic means of securing the removal of equipment when redundant, and restoring the site to a satisfactory condition.
Other Issues - No information available.
Community Benefit
Date of policy
No current policy.
Recommended payment per MW
N/A.
Guidance on other benefits
- No set guidance on community benefit.
Status (Adopted / In consultation)
N.A.
Number of windfarms over 5MW
- 0 operational.
- 1 refused.
- 3 in planning.
Comments
None.
Link to council page: http://www.midlothian.gov.uk/
Link to council policy document: http://www.midlothian.gov.uk/downloads/198/planning_policy
Moray
Planning Information - The following information must be provided for wind energy proposals: Landscape and visual impact; A full landscape impact assessment: Natural Environment Impact assessment; Built Environment impact assessment: Impact on Tourism and Recreational Facilities, Infrastructure, Pollution (noise etc); Proximity to Settlements; and Effects on Aircraft.
Technical Information - No information available.
Environment, Archaeology and Conservation Areas - The presence of a protected species or habitats is a material consideration in the assessment of development proposals. Proposals should avoid harm to species or habitats protected under European Directives, or identified in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. The council will also deem unsuitable for development, the following areas: Sites of Special Scientific Interest; Special Protection Areas; Candidate and designated Special Areas of Conservation; Sand dunes; Golf courses; Semi natural woodland; Ramsar sites; Countryside Around Town areas and National Scenic areas
Landscape and Visual Impacts - Areas of Great Landscape Value and Areas of low landscape potential for wind farms identified in the 'Landscape Potential for Windfarms in North and East Highland and Moray Study' will be deemed unsuitable for development.
Local Amenity, Residents, Resources and Tourism - A detailed noise impact assessment will need to be carried out to assess nearest noise sensitive dwellings and background noise surveys. Details should also be provided assessing the potential disturbance to nearby properties and settlements. This should cover issues such as shadow flicker, disturbance to TV reception and acoustic effects. Details of footpaths, cycleways and bridleways which may be affected by the proposals must also be included, as well as visual assessments from popular recreational routes and viewpoints.
Transport and Safety Considerations - Details of the size of the vehicles, loads and frequency of traffic movements are required during the application process. An assessment of possible driver distraction points is also required during application.
Electromagnetic Interference, Aviation and Communications - Information should be provided on any possible effect on civil and military aircraft and on airport radar equipment with mitigation strategies proposed.
Connection to the Grid - No information available.
Decommissioning - A reinstatement plan should be submitted giving detailed proposals of how the proposer would intend to restore the ground to its former condition. A bond may be required to be taken out to achieve the reinstatement.
Other Issues - No information available.
Community Benefit
Date of policy
No current policy - in development.
Recommended payment per MW
tbc.
Guidance on other benefits
- Working on a draft policy for community benefit, expected to be circulated in April 2012.
- Aims to cover all forms of renewable energy, not just wind.
Status (Adopted / In consultation)
Under consultation - Draft due April 2012.
Number of windfarms over 5MW
- 4 operational.
- 4 consented.
- 3 in planning.
Comments
Consultation draft due April 2012.
Link to council page: http://www.moray.gov.uk/
Link to council policy document: http://www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_57742.html
North Ayrshire
Planning Information - No information available.
Technical Information - No information available.
Environment, Archaeology and Conservation Areas - Developers must site their proposals appropriately to safeguard important tourist assets. These include international recognised golf courses, major sailing and recreational locations, landscapes sensitive to change, coastal communities and European and nationally significant natural heritage and habitats. Areas particularly sensitive to the impacts of wind farms and which are regionally significant include: Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park, Heads of Ayr, Merrick Hills, and the Galloway national tourist route, which stretches from Gretna to Ayr and links the Robert Burns attractions in both Dumfries and Ayr and the industrial heritage of the Doon Valley.
Landscape and Visual Impacts - No information available.
Local Amenity, Residents, Resources and Tourism - Wind farms have the potential to create significant long term adverse impacts on the amenity of an area or health, well being and quality of life of people living or working nearby. Therefore, development will not generally be supported within 2km of a town and village or within either 700 metres or a distance of 10 time the turbines rotor blade diameter (whichever is the greater) from an individual dwelling, work place or community facility unless the developer can demonstrate the impacts are acceptable.
Transport and Safety Considerations - No information available.
Electromagnetic Interference, Aviation and Communications - Wind development should not interfere with the communication operations of Glasgow Prestwick airport and MOD tactical training area located in North Ayrshire. Developers should consult with and demonstrate that network owners and Ofcom are satisfied, that no adverse impact will occur or alternatively that a technical solution is available and will be provided as part of the scheme.
Connection to the Grid - No information available.
Decommissioning - No information available.
Other Issues - No information available.
Community Benefit
Date of policy
2007.
Recommended payment per MW
>£3500.
Guidance on other benefits
- Community Benefit from Renewable Energy fund established, to administer funds from developers.
- All benefit money goes into this North Ayrshire-wide fund.
- To be used to fund environmental improvements of the physical environment, environmental education and sustainability work.
Status (Adopted / In consultation)
Adopted.
Number of windfarms over 5MW
- 3 operational.
- 2 approved or under construction.
- 2 refused (1 on appeal).
- 3 withdrawn.
Comments
Link to council page: http://www.north-ayrshire.gov.uk/
Link to council policy document: http://www.north-ayrshire.gov.uk/Documents/CorporateServices/LegalProtective/LocalDevelopmentPlan/AyrshireSGonWindFarmDev.pdf
North Lanarkshire
Planning Information - Applications for wind turbine developments are expected to include as a minimum requirement the following information: Environmental Statement; Supporting Statement; a Transport Assessment; Design Statement; Construction Method Statements and Environmental Management Plans; Other Environmental Factors; Restoration Proposals; Financial Bond & Legal Agreement; Community Engagement Statement.
Technical Information - Wind farm proposals will need to demonstrate that: an appraisal has been carried out of the existing character and features of the site and its setting. This includes: identity, connections, landscape, biodiversity, heritage or amenity value; existing on site rights of way or features of natural or historic environment interest (including stone buildings) that will be safeguarded or enhanced. The proposed development should take account of the site appraisal and any evaluation of design options, and achieve a high quality development in terms of; mitigating any likely air quality, noise, or pollution impacts; and integrating successfully into the local area and avoiding harm to the neighbouring amenity.
Environment, Archaeology and Conservation Areas - North Lanarkshire has four Special Areas of Conservation (SAC), namely: Black Loch Moss, Clyde Valley Woodlands (incorporating GarrionGill SSSI), North Shotts Moss and West Fannyside Moss. There is one Special Protection Area – Slamannan Plateau; and thirteen sites of Special Scientific Interest: Black Loch Moss, Corrie Burn, Dullatur Marsh, Garrion Gill, Hassockrigg and North Shotts Mosses, Hamilton Low Parks (part of), Lady Bell’s Moss, Longriggend Moss, MollinsburnRoad Cutting, North Bellstane Plantation, Slammanan Plateau, West Fannyside Moss and Woodend Loch. Any development proposal which is likely to have a significant effect on these sites must be subject to an appropriate assessment by the planning authority.
Landscape and Visual Impact - No information available.
Local Amenity, Residents, Resources and Tourism - North Lanarkshire Council wishes to ensure that wind turbine developments are sited and designed so that adverse effects on landscape and visual amenity are minimised. Therefore, Large-scale windfarm proposals (> 20 MW) should have a stand-off distance of up to 2 km between areas of development and the edge of its towns and villages.
Transport and Safety Considerations - Pre-application consultation with Transport Scotland’s Trunk Roads Network Management (TRNM) is particularly important for planning the movement of large components (abnormal load routing) during the construction period, periodic maintenance and for decommissioning. Driver distractions may also be a consideration. For North Lanarkshire, the recommended distance from any road network for a wind turbine will be the height of the turbine plus 50%.
Electromagnetic Interference, Aviation and Communications - No information available.
Connection to the Grid - No information available.
Decommissioning - Decommissioning activities require to be planned and details of restoration and site aftercare must be included in any planning application. Sufficient funding should be available to guarantee equipment removal, site restoration and after care at close of operations or after site abandonment for a period of 6 months.
Other Issues - No information available.
Community Benefit
Date of policy
No current policy.
Recommended payment per MW
N/A.
Guidance on other benefits
- No set guidance on community benefit.
Status (Adopted / In consultation)
N/A.
Number of windfarms over 5MW
- 2 operational.
- 1 consented.
- 4 in planning.
Comments
None.
Link to council page: http://www.northlanarkshire.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=1
Link to council policy document: http://www.northlanarkshire.gov.uk/CHttpHandler.ashx?id=7542&p=0
Orkney Islands
Planning Information - The development of renewable and low carbon energy schemes will be supported where it has been demonstrated, through mitigation where this is appropriate, that the proposal will not result in significant effects, including environmental effects, either individually or cumulatively. Sufficient information must be submitted with the planning application to enable a full assessment to be made of the likely effects of the development.
Technical Information - Proposals where the height to blade tip is more than 20m will require a statutory notice. Applications for wind turbines where the hub height or the height of any other structure exceeds 15 metres, must undertake screening under the Environmental Impact Assessment (Scotland) Regulations 1999. Applications for wind farms over 50 megawatts will be decided by the Scottish Government under the Electricity (Scotland) Act 1989.
Environment, Archaeology and Conservation Areas - Onshore wind energy development will not be permitted in locations where they would have a significant adverse impact on designated nature conservation sites, statutorily protected species of natural heritage interest and/or wider biodiversity interests. Planning applications must be supported by an assessment of impact and potential mitigation which complies with the current best practice. The following designations have been identified as being sensitive to the development of onshore wind energy development, and should be afforded significant protection: (i) Natura 2000 Sites (Special Protection Areas & Special Areas of Conservation); (ii) Ramsar sites; (iii) Sites of Special Scientific Interest; (iv) Orkney World Heritage Site Inner Sensitive Zones and the associated sensitive ridgelines; (v) The National Scenic Area. Orkney World Heritage Site and its associated Supplementary Guidance establish protection for the World Heritage Site and its setting. It is therefore considered appropriate to steer onshore wind energy development away from the Inner Sensitive Zones and the associated sensitive ridgelines of the World Heritage Sites (such as Scara Brae).
Landscape and Visual Impact - No information available.
Local Amenity, Residents, Resources and Tourism - Onshore wind energy development that is likely to have a significant adverse impact or cumulative impact on important scenic areas, quality of life or amenity at residential properties, work places, core paths and recognised visitor site, or on the Orkney landscape generally, that cannot be mitigated to the satisfaction of Orkney Islands Council will not be permitted.
Transport and Safety Considerations - No information available.
Electromagnetic Interference, Aviation and Communications - Planning permission for onshore wind energy development will not be permitted in locations where they would affect the airports and airfield communications, navigation and radar (e.g. Kirkwall Airport).
Connection to the Grid - No information available.
Decommissioning - A decommissioning statement should be submitted in support of a planning application. This statement should be updated at least 1 year before the cessation of generation at the site.
Other Issues - No information available.
Community Benefit
Date of policy
2009.
Recommended payment per MW
£2000 per installed MW, plus £1000 per MW installed x actual efficiency in any given year.
Guidance on other benefits
- Strong backing for community owned projects, with council announcing it would consider investing its own funds in these schemes.
- A combination of payments based on installed capacity and actual electricity generated is thought to be most fair by the council.
Status (Adopted / In consultation)
Adopted.
Number of windfarms over 5MW
- 1 operational.
- 1 under construction.
Comments
None.
Link to council page: http://www.orkney.gov.uk/
Link to council policy document: http://www.orkney.gov.uk/Files/Planning/Development-Planning/Onshore%20Wind%20Energy%20Development.pdf
Perth & Kinross
Planning Information - No information available.
Technical Information - No information available.
Environment, Archaeology and Conservation Areas - Large parts of Perth & Kinross have been given statutory protection because of their nature conservation interest (e.g.Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs)) and are likely to impose constraints on the location of wind turbines. Proposals should avoid significant adverse effects on biodiversity and in particular those sites or species identified as being of international or national importance.
Landscape and Visual Impact - Wind energy proposals will be encouraged except in locations where they will have a substantial or moderate adverse impact on landscape character which cannot be mitigated. Effects on landscape character will be evaluated in accordance with current best practice (issued by e.g. the Landscape Institute or SNH). The following landscapes and sensitive areas are considered important in this assessment: National Scenic Areas; National Parks; Historic Gardens and Designed Landscapes; Perth Green Belt; Areas of Great Landscape Value; The views from major tourist routes (M90, A826, A822, A827, A85, A9, A93, B8019, B846); The views from popular public or representative viewpoints and paths; Settlements.
Local Amenity, Residents, Resources and Tourism - In some locations, aspects of local visual effects may be as important as wider landscape considerations, and wind energy developments should not dominate significant surrounding features. Proposals should avoid significant visual impacts on houses or settlements, locally prominent or valued landforms and locally prominent buildings or Scheduled Ancient Monuments.
Transport and Safety Considerations. - No information available.
Electromagnetic Interference, Aviation and Communications - Developments shoud avoid electromagnetic interference. This can beminimised by appropriate turbine siting in relation to telecoms systems, technical solutions and provision of alternative services for local residents (e.g. cable or satellite television).
Connection to the Grid - No information available.
Decommissioning - In order to ensure the satisfactory removal of hill tracks, turbine towers and blades, and any ancillary equipment, a ‘decommissioning statement’ will be required at the time the proposal is submitted and it should be updated on a five yearly cycle and finalised at least 1 year before the cessation of generation from the site. A financial bond or similar mechanism may also be required to ensure that the site can be reinstated.
Other Issues - No information available.
Community Benefit
Date of policy
No current policy.
Recommended payment per MW
N/A.
Guidance on other benefits
- No set guidance on community benefit.
- Considered introducing a council-wide fund in 2004 but did not act on this.
Status (Adopted / In consultation)
N/A.
Number of windfarms over 5MW
- 3 operational.
- 3 approved or under construction.
- 1 scoping.
- 2 refused.
Comments
Perth and Kinross Council to be contacted to confirm wind farm figures and whether policy is in development.
Link to council page: http://www.pkc.gov.uk/
Link to council policy document: http://www.pkc.gov.uk/Planning+and+the+environment/Planning/Development+plan/Development+plan.htm
Renfrewshire
Renfrewshire Council currently has no policies relating to wind energy development projects.
Community Benefit
Date of policy
No current policy.
Recommended payment per MW
N/A.
Guidance on other benefits
- No set guidance on community benefit.
Status (Adopted / In consultation)
N/A.
Number of windfarms over 5MW
- No windfarms in area.
Comments
No windfarms in council area.
Link to council page: http://www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/webcontent/home/
Scottish Borders
Planning Information - No information available.
Technical Information - No information available.
Environment, Archaeology and Conservation Areas - Renewable energy developments will be approved provided that there are no unacceptable adverse impacts on the natural heritage including the water environment, landscape, biodiversity, built environment and archaeological heritage, or that any adverse impacts can be satisfactorily mitigated. Some types of effects which are likely to be significant include: (i) Causing change to the coherence of the site or to the Natura 2000 series (e.g. presenting a barrier between isolated fragments, or reducing the ability of the site to act as a source of new colonisers); (ii) Causing reduction in the area of a natural habitat or of the site; (iii) Causing direct or indirect change to the physical quality of the environment. In Scottish Borders there are 9 Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) and 5 Special Protection Areas (SPA’s). Therefore, the above considerations need to be made in and around these areas. An Environmental impact Assessment (EIA) may be required for large turbines (over 60m) and its extent and the identification of any viewpoints to be considered should be agreed with the planning officer.
Although there are no green belts within the Scottish Borders, the consolidated Local Plan (2011) does make provision for an area that extends from St Boswells to Galashiels and includes land around the settlements of Newtown St Boswells, Eildon, Gattonside, Melrose, Newstead, Darnick and Tweedbank. The aim of the policy is to ensure that the high quality living environment is protected and enhanced and that these areas are not subject to "piecemeal" development that detracts from the area’s outstanding biodiversity, landscape, historical and recreational context.
Landscape and Visual Impact - No information available.
Local Amenity, Residents, Resources and Tourism - Renewable energy developments will be approved provided that there are no unacceptable adverse impacts on recreation and tourism, including access routes, or that any adverse impacts can be satisfactorily mitigated. Small scale or domestic renewable energy developments, including community schemes, will be encouraged where they can be satisfactorily accommodated into their surroundings in accordance with the protection of residential amenity and the historic and natural environment.
Transport and Safety Considerations - Visual impact should be assessed for the potential to cause driver distraction.
Electromagnetic Interference, Aviation and Communications - A specific issue has been raised by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) regarding how wind turbines may adversely interfere with the Seismic Testing station at Eskdalemuir near Langholm in Dumfries and Galloway. Therefore, a statutory consulation zone of 50km around Eskdalemuir has been introduced.
Connection to the Grid - Planning authorities may steer developments to areas where existing and approved grid capacity can be maximised and wind farm developments are likely to be accommodated.
Decommissioning - A planning condition or legal agreement should be in place to ensure turbines and associated structures are removed, when decommissioned. Turbine bases may be left ‘insitu’ to avoid damage taking place through removal. A Decommissioning Statement and a reinstatement plan should be submitted giving detailed proposals of how they would intend to restore the ground to its former condition.
Other Issues - No information available.
Community Benefit
Date of policy
2006.
Recommended payment per MW
No defined per MW amount.
Guidance on other benefits
- No clear guidance policy as yet.
- Has issued a toolkit to aid communities in negotiating benefits.
Status (Adopted / In consultation)
Adopted.
Number of windfarms over 5MW
- 11 operational.
- 3 approved or under construction.
- 11 submitted pending outcome.
- 1 on appeal.
- 7 refused.
- 1 approved on appeal.
Comments
None
Link to council page: http://www.scotborders.gov.uk/
Link to council policy document: http://www.scotborders.gov.uk/downloads/file/290/wind_energy
Shetland Islands
Planning Information - No information available.
Technical Information - No information available.
Environment, Archaeology and Conservation Areas - Proposals for wind energy within or adjacent to designated or candidate European sites or notified Marine Consultation Areas, National Scenic Areas, or any notified or classified sites (e.g. SSSIs, SPAs) must not have a significant adverse effect on the underlying objectives and overall integrity of the notified area.
Landscape and Visual Impact - No information available.
Local Amenity, Residents, Resources and Tourism - The Shetland environment and the quality of life of its residents should not compromised by wind development. It should not unacceptably affect the amenities of neighbouring occupiers by creation of noise emission, visual dominance, shadow flicker or reflected light. Wind turbines serving individual crofts or houses will normally be permitted where they can readily be accommodated into the landscape. However, hilltop and skyline sites should be avoided, and the turbine should be located as close to the building being served as is safe and technically possible.
Transport and Safety Considerations - The proposal should not significantly increase the risk of driver distraction. The development, including associated buildings and infrastructure, permanent access roads and tracks, should be sensitively designed and sited to have minimum impact.
Electromagnetic Interference, Aviation and Communications - If electromagnetic disturbance is likely to be caused to any existing transmitting or receiving systems by the development, the proposal should include measures to remedy or mitigate any disturbance.
Connection to the Grid - No information available.
Decommissioning - No information available.
Other Issues - No information available.
Community Benefit
Date of policy
No current policy.
Recommended payment per MW
N/A.
Guidance on other benefits
- No set guidance on community benefit.
Status (Adopted / In consultation)
N/A.
Number of windfarms over 5MW
- 2 approved or in construction.
Comments
None
Link to council page: http://www.shetland.gov.uk/
Link to council policy document: http://www.shetland.gov.uk/developmentplans/ShetlandLocalPlan.asp
South Ayrshire
The Council recognises the merit in promoting sensitive renewable energy production methods and is aware that South Ayrshire has a range of resources which may prove to be viable. Although these may have wide ranging benefits, they may not be without local detrimental impacts. Whilst generally encouraging renewable energy developments, the Council will therefore seek to ensure that they do not result in any unacceptable impact on the natural or built environment.
Community Benefit
Date of policy
2006.
Recommended payment per MW
To reflect wider industry practice in Scotland.
Guidance on other benefits
- 60% of fund to go to those within 5km of development, 40% to those within 15km.
- Preference for a 'Super Company' to administer the 40% wider area funds.
- Bodies distributing funds should be comprised largely of local people.
- Initially bodies to administrate funds were set up with council involvement - this has ceased in some cases following local capacity building (e.g. at Hadyard Hill).
Status (Adopted / In consultation)
Adopted.
Number of windfarms over 5MW
- 3 operational.
- 3 in planning.
- 1 scoping.
- 1 refused.
- 1 withdrawn.
Comments
None.
Link to council page: http://www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk/
Link to council policy document: http://www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk/local-plan/
South Lanarkshire
Planning Information - No information available.
Technical Information - No information available.
Environment, Archaeology and Conservation Areas - Developments affecting international and national natural heritage designations must accord with ENV4 - Protection of the Natural and Built Environment. Wind farm developments of over 20MW will only be permitted in exceptional circumstances, either as a national priority or to meet an established need. Areas adjoining the western boundary of South Lanarkshire are adjacent to the Muirkirk and North Lowther Uplands Special Protection Areas (SPA) and any potential impacts on these areas requires full assessment in accordance with European Directives and national legislation. Although there are no strategic constraints, areas such as the north east Clydesdale area, where there is the potential to have cumulative impact (with the recently constructed Black Law windfarm), scope for further development is likely to be limited. Similar considerations apply in the potential area to the south west of East Kilbride due to the construction of the Whitelee wind farm.
Landscape and Visual Impact - No information available.
Local Amenity, Residents, Resources and Tourism - Micro-renewable energy developments will be encouraged where they can be satisfactorily accommodated into their surroundings and not adversely impact on residential amenity and the historic and built environment. Views from key tourist routes and visitor attractions shouldnot be adversely affected.
Transport and Safety Considerations - Access for construction traffic must not compromise highway safety. Proposers need to provide a transportation statement setting out the traffic impact for the construction and operational periods of the turbine(s).
Electromagnetic Interference, Aviation and Communications - No electromagnetic disturbance should be caused to any existing transmitting or receiving system. But if this is the case, measures should be taken to minimise any such disturbances.
Connection to the Grid - No information available.
Decommissioning - All applications should include details of decommissioning and restoration of the site at the end of the life of the turbine(s)- including a restoration bond where appropriate.
Other Issues - No information available.
Community Benefit
Date of policy
2004 - updated 2010.
Recommended payment per MW
£2,500 per MW minimum payment.
Guidance on other benefits
- 2 funding options: Renewable Energy Fund (REF) and Local Grant Scheme.
- REFs receive 70% of income and are administered by the council. Gives grants over £10,000 up to 50% of total 'eligible' costs.
- REFs focus on larger 'legacy' projects.
- 30% goes into Local Grant Scheme administered by the South Lanarkshire Rural Partnership. Grants of less than £5,000 and up to 100% of total 'eligible' costs for smaller community-based projects.
- Funds used up to 10km from the site, with preference given to sites within 5km.
- Council - not communities - negotiates with developers.
Status (Adopted / In consultation)
Adopted.
Number of windfarms over 5MW
- 7 operational.
- 10 consented or under construction.
- 8 submitted pending outcome.
Comments
None.
Link to council page: http://www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk/
Link to council policy document: http://www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk/info/161/planning_and_building_standards/881/local_development_plan/2
Stirling
Planning Information - No information available.
Technical Information - Outwith Areas of significant protection, Stirling Council will support proposals for wind turbines where: they are appropriate in scale, design and layout for their location; the landscape character and scale is capable of accommodating the scale of development proposed: landscape, wildlife and habitats of international and national importance are not significantly adversely impacted; historic heritage of national importance is not significantly adversely impacted; aviation and telecommunication interests can be protected; and significant detrimental effects upon nearby residential areas can be avoided.
Environment, Archaeology and Conservation Areas - In terms of nature conservation sites, if a proposed development appears likely to adversely affect the conservation status of habitats or species for a European protected site, an ‘Appropriate Assessment’ of the proposals must be carried out and a satisfactory means of mitigating the impacts must be found before the proposal can be approved. Developers will be expected to take into account Scheduled Ancient Monuments, Listed Buildings etc., particularly two ancient battle sites - Bannockburn and Sheriffmuir – which are of historic cultural importance. Therefore, the council may consider any applications in their vicinity that may affect their setting.
Landscape and Visual Impact - No information available.
Local Amenity, Residents, Resources and Tourism - A separation distance of up to 2km between areas of search and the edge of cities, towns and villages is recommended to guide developments to the most appropriate sites and to reduce visual impact. Recommended levels of acceptable noise propagation from wind turbines are explained through Stirling councils PAN45 document and the council expects at least three of these recommended standards to be satisfied.
Transport and Safety Considerations - Liaison will be expected with Council Roads officials as to acceptable routes during devlopment and installation. If improvement to public roads is required, agreement must be reached as to whether these works will be required for subsequent maintenance purposes and therefore need to be permanent.
Electromagnetic Interference, Aviation and Communications - Applicants should liaise with broadcasters and telecommunications operators in the area to seek mutually acceptable solutions to any potential signal interference issues prior to submitting proposals. The Stirling Plan area has a long-established communications ‘hub’ at Earl’s Hill. It plays a key role in ‘line – of – sight’ telecommunications links between south, central and north Scotland. Developers should therefore consult with OFCOM to obtain details of how thier proposal may interfere with this and other communications installations.
Connection to the Grid - Grid connections, particularly if by overhead cables, may be regarded as visual intrusions if passing close to residential properties. Underground or overhead cables running across prominent hill slopes may also raise concerns. Stirling Council will expect applicants to indicate, whenever possible, their likely type and route.
Decommissioning - Planning applications require to be accompanied by information on these matters, with a scheme of decommissioning, equipment removal, site restoration and aftercare, and financial arrangements sufficient to ensure that the necessary works can be carried out.
Other Issues - No information available.
Community Benefit
Date of policy
N/A.
Recommended payment per MW
N/A.
Guidance on other benefits
- Developers directed to liaise with the council's Economic Development officers to determine scale and nature of any potential economic spin-offs, and whether they meet the tests set out in Circular 1/2010 Planning Agreements.
- A report on this will then be used as a Material Consideration when the council considers the application.
Status (Adopted / In consultation)
N/A.
Number of windfarms over 5MW
- 4 operational.
- 1 approved or under construction.
- 3 in planning.
Comments
How does Stirling's use of benefit as a material consideration accord with legal guidance?
Link to council page: http://www.stirling.gov.uk/
Link to council policy document: http://www.stirling.gov.uk/services/planning-and-the-environment/planning-and-building-standards/local-and-statutory-development-plans/development-plan
West Dunbartonshire
Planning Information - No information available.
Technical Information - No information available.
Environment, Landscape, Archaeology and Conservation Areas - Proposals for renewable energy development will be permitted where it can be established without unacceptable detriment to the landscape, natural and built heritage. Development will be considered against the visual impact and effect on landscape character on: the Kilpatrick Hills Regional Scenic Area; the role and function of the Green Belt; nature conservation areas and habitats; and historic environments (including scheduled ancient monuments and listed buildings).
Local Amenity, Residents, Resources and Tourism - Proposals will be considered against any noise, odour and cumulative impact of the proposed development along with any other effects upon the environment and amenity, including sport and recreation areas. Proposals for micro-renewable technologies will be encouraged where they can be satisfactorily accommodated into their surroundings without adverse impact on residential amenity and the historic and built environment.
Transport and Safety Considerations - Proposals will be considered against the impact on traffic and access during construction.
Electromagnetic Interference, Aviation and Communications - Developments will be considered for their potential broadcast interference.
Connection to the Grid - No information available.
Decommissioning - No information available.
Other Issues - No information available.
Community Benefit
Date of policy
No current policy.
Recommended payment per MW
N/A.
Guidance on other benefits
- No set guidance on community benefit.
Status (Adopted / In consultation)
N/A.
Number of windfarms over 5MW
- 1 in planning.
Comments
No windfarms in council area as yet.
Link to council page: http://www.west-dunbarton.gov.uk/
Link to council policy document: http://www.west-dunbarton.gov.uk/planning-and-the-environment/planning-and-building-standards/local-plan-and-local-development-plan/view-the-current-local-plan/
West Lothian
Planning Information - West Lothian wishes to ensure renewable energy developments are directed to appropriate locations, whilst safeguarding important natural heritage and community interests. Schemes producing under 50 MW of electricity require planning permission from the council. Above that threshold, the application is determined (in accordance with Section 36 of The Electricity Act 1989) by the Scottish Government. Proposals for renewable energy schemes will be looked on favourably if the scheme is acceptable in planning terms and does not give rise to unacceptable environmental effects including cumulative landscape and visual impact and other adverse consequences for the broader natural heritage and for communities living close by.
Technical Information - No information available.
Environment, Archaeology and Conservation Areas - West Lothian Council seeks to protect the international natural heritage designations at Craigengarin the Pentland Hills and Blawhorn Moss, by Blackridge from any adverse effects caused by the construction or operation of wind farms. Pentland Hills Regional Park is also of particular value for landscape and outdoor recreational interests, therefore any proposals that are either located in the regional park or are visible from the park will require vigorous assessment. In the context of the Scottish Government’s commitment to its climate change programme, the council has identified broad areas within West Lothian which may be receptive to wind farm developments. However, areas of West Lothian in close proximity to Edinburgh Airport may prevent the use of southern part of this district. However, the expansive coniferous forestry plantations encompassing Woodmuir Plantation and Pates Hill, south of Breich and west of the Addiewell to Cobbinshaw road may offer potential sites for development.
Landscape and Visual Impacts - No information available.
Local Amenity, Residents, Resources and Tourism - West Lothian council will wish to ensure that any single dwelling or group of residential properties is not adversely affected by the operation of a proposed wind farm. As a general rule, the council would regard a 500m buffer between any proposed wind development and a dwelling to be a minimum distance.
Transport and Safety Considerations - Windfarm development will be assessed taking into account noise and dust impacts during construction, public access to the site, track construction, track down-grading following commissioning of the development and track restoration following final decommissioning of the development.
Additionally, the council will look to safeguard and ensure repairs to any potential damage to vulnerable haul routes during the construction period.
Electromagnetic Interference, Aviation and Communications - Airport safety should be applied within the proposal as well as mitigating any interference with telecommunications networks and civil or military radio communications.
Connection to the Grid - No information available.
Decommissioning - There should be indicative restoration strategy within the application which details the dismantling of the development and reinstatement of the site. In certain circumstances a restoration bond with the developer and/or landowner may be appropriate and the council will seek this safegaurd as a condition attached to the application.
Other Issues - No information available.
Community Benefit
Date of policy
2008.
Recommended payment per MW
Information not available.
Guidance on other benefits
- Set up the West Lothian Development Trust, which comprises of members from the communities within 10km of the developments, West Lothian Council and the windfarm developers.
- 70% of funding received will be spent in communities within 5km. The remaining 30% will be spent within 10km.
- Project should either relieve poverty, secure economic benefits, increase renewable energy provision and/or encourage environmental improvement.
Status (Adopted / In consultation)
Adopted.
Number of windfarms over 5MW
- 1 operational.
- 2 approved.
- 2 in planning.
Comments
None.
Link to council page: http://www.westlothian.gov.uk/
Link to council policy document: http://www.westlothian.gov.uk/1210/161/178/
Western Isles (Eilean Siar)
Planning Information - The Comhairle will support proposals that contribute to meeting the targets and objectives of the National Planning Framework, the Climate Change Act, and the National Renewables Infrastructure Plan in relation to electricity grid reinforcement, infrastructure and renewable energy generation. Development proposals for renewable energy proposals will be viewed positively, subject to satisfactory assessment of all of the following: (i) The impact on local communities and any other existing orproposed land uses and interests; (ii) The impact, including cumulative impact, on natural and builtheritage resources; (iii) The local and wider benefits that the proposal may bring; (iv) The adequacy of reinstatement arrangements; (v) The requirements of other Structure Plan policies. If a development includes either 2 or more turbines or if one turbine has a hub height exceeding 15metres, the council must determine whether or not an environmental impact assessment is required, i.e. a ‘screening opinion’. EIA is more likely to be required for more than 5 turbines or >5MW.
Technical Information - No information available.
Environment, Landscape, Archaeology and Conservation Areas - Planning applications affecting nature conservation will require the developer to show that any area of conservation will not be irreversibly damaged and that the area has the capacity to accommodate the development through mitigation and management arrangements. Planning process should ensure that developments are undertaken with due care with regards to the natural environment through consultation with Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) and Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA). Protected areas including important habitats, species, landscapes, geological formations, and sites of world significance (e.g. St Kilda) make up 65% of the land area of the Western Isles. Development proposed within these designated areas is generally considered to be met with resistance, but the key criterion is the integrity of the interests which the designation seeks to protect. Certain habitats or species may be more or less at risk depending on the nature of development.
Local Amenity, Residents, Resources and Tourism - Proposals must have no unacceptable adverse impact on aviation, defence and telecommunications, public health and safety, amenity (including noise and shadow flicker as appropriate); neighbouring land uses, transport management, water resources and core paths. For micro-generation projects (less than 50kW), proposals are not to have an unacceptable direct, indirect or cumulative impact on residential amenity. The structural characteristics of the development should be appropriate to the setting and minimise visual impact and distraction.
Transport and Safety Considerations - All efforts should be made to minimise the effect of construction on local road users. Information should be provided on the routing/timing of construction movements, possible road infrastructure improvements and construction phases and timescales. Reasonable improvements, when required, to roads or other services should be made to accommodate the proposed development.
Electromagnetic Interference, Aviation and Communications - All efforts should be made to minimise electromagnetic interference with radio/ television signals with regards to the siting of the proposed turbines. Consultation should take place with the relevant agencies i.e. Ofcom.
Connection to the Grid - Available capacity on the grid to accommodate a project should be a material planning consideration. However, it should not be the sole determining factor, especially when upgrade of the grid is required to enable further renewable developments in the area.
Decommissioning - A decommissioning statement will be required to be submitted in support of a planning application, which should be updated at least 1 year before completion of the project.
Other Issues - No information available.
Community Benefit
Date of policy
26 May 2012
The Western Isles Community Planning Partnership is a scheme created by the council providing support for community development and Investment in the Western Isles. It supports a wide range of projects specifically community-based renewable projects, supporting community ownership of energy generation and supporting all communities to achieve benefits from commercial wind farm developments. The Developing Alternative and Renewable Energy (DARE) Fund is also available to communities for grants towards renewable energy projects from a minimum of £10,000 to a maximum of £50,000
Link:http://www.cne-siar.gov.uk/creatingcommunities/index.asp
Link:http://www.cne-siar.gov.uk/renewable/dare.asp
Recommended payment per MW
Information not available.
Guidance on other benefits
"Grant assistance to each individual project will be up to 50% of total eligible project costs subject to a minimum grant of £10,000 and a maximum of £25,000. Projects of exceptional merit may be considered for a maximum grant of £50,000."
Status (Adopted / In consultation)
Adopted
Number of windfarms over 5MW
- 0 operational.
- 5 approved or under construction.
- 3 in planning.
Comments
None.
Link to council page: http://www.cne-siar.gov.uk/
Link to council policy document: http://www.cne-siar.gov.uk/localplanning/documents/plandocsadopted/localplan.pdf
Created using original SCENE research, in collaboration with Docherty Consulting.
