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SCOTTISH AND SOUTHERN ENERGY WINDFARM APPLICATION, GORDONBUSH, BRORA, SUTHERLAND

The proposed windfarm site adjoins a multi-designation area chosen as a prime example of blanket bog (a priority habitat under the EC Habitats Directive) with an important population of protected bird species, including Golden Plover (listed in Annex 1 of the EC Birds Directive). The density of breeding Golden Plovers within the proposed site boundary itself justifies the area’s inclusion within an expanded Special Protection Area or conservation measures under the terms of the Directive relating to important populations of scheduled species outwith designated areas. Approval of this development would therefore be in contravention of EC law. (See paragraphs 6.1 and 6.2 of Annex 2.)
Other protected bird species, such as Golden Eagle, Hen Harrier and Merlin would be adversely affected by the proposed development. These and migratory species, such as geese, are vulnerable to collision with the turbines. (See paragraphs 6.3 to 6.6 of Annex 2.)
The proposed site has over 250 archaeological features, many only recently discovered, which provide a valuable record of human habitation from Neolithic times to the infamous Clearances of the 1820s. More work needs to be done on their full significance. (See paragraphs 7.1 to 7.4 of Annex 2.)
The proposed development would have a potentially serious adverse affect on Sutherland’s fragile tourist industry. Tourism is the mainstay of the Sutherland economy and the principal source of employment. Most visitors are attracted by the area’s natural assets. Any degradation of these by windfarms would deter a significant percentage. The potential for developing eco-tourism, the best hope for the long-term expansion of this sector, would be greatly reduced. (See paragraphs 8.2 to 8.4 of Annex 2.)
Disruption of the local road network will result in disproportionate inconvenience to the residents of Golspie and Brora, and affect populations to the north of the proposed development who are totally dependent on the A9 Trunk Road to access Inverness and the south. There are no alternative dual-track roads. The minor, single-track roads to the proposed site’s access point will require major modification and strengthening as they are unsuitable for HGVs. (See paragraphs 3.2 to 3.6 of Annex 2). These modifications would transform the character of this beautiful area.
Road blockages could have very serious consequences in a medical emergency as the nearest main hospital is 60 miles away, in Inverness. Again, the A9 is the only route. (See paragraph 3.2 of Annex 2.).
The visual impact of the proposed development would destroy the scenic integrity of the East Sutherland hills and be visible at great distances from areas of ‘wild land’ to the north and north-west. (See paragraphs 4.1 to 4.4 of Annex 2.).
The construction of hill tracks would affect the hydrology of the site and threaten populations of two protected mammal species - Otter and Water Vole. (See paragraphs 5.1 and 5.3 of Annex 2.).
The proposed development does not conform with the Highland and Local Structure Plans, particularly in respect of Policies T6 (scenic views), L4 (landscape character) or with National Policies NPPG 6, as it relates (paragraph 31) to tourism and recreation, or NPPG 14 (natural heritage). It also contradicts both the objectives of the newly published Sutherland Biodiversity Action Plan and the conclusions of the Hutchinson Report (1999). (See paragraphs 5 and 6 of covering letter and paragraphs 8.2 and 8.4 of Annex 2.)