NEW guidance is being drawn up to advise on the potential impacts of windfarms on Dumfries and Galloway’s landscape.
Dumfries and Galloway Council is updating its Wind Energy Landscape Sensitivity Study Supplementary Guidance.
And they are asking the public and interested stakeholders to participate in a consultation on the draft study and give their views.
Once agreed, this document will act as an update to the council’s existing framework for assessing the impact of onshore wind energy developments on the region’s diverse landscapes and scenery.
It was last revised in 2017 and since then, Dumfries and Galloway has seen increased interest in wind energy projects, including applications for taller turbines exceeding 150 metres.
Landscape changes due to ongoing windfarm developments, updates to NatureScot’s landscape study guidelines, and the adoption of the National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4) all highlight the need for updated, informed guidance to manage future proposals effectively.
Commenting, Cllr Ian Blake said: “Our region is known for its rich landscapes – these are integral to the area’s identity and environmental heritage. As climate change mitigation and the transition to net-zero gain national importance, renewable energy projects are key to Scotland’s future. However, these projects must be balanced with the need to preserve the unique landscapes of Dumfries and Galloway.
“This draft guidance will provide the council with essential tools to evaluate the landscape impacts of wind energy proposals under current policy and environmental contexts.”
And he stressed that public feedback is vital to shaping the final document.
Agreeing, Cllr Jackie McCamon added: “Our area has long been of interest to the renewables sector, and we expect this to continue. Some of our landscapes have already been changed by wind energy developments and with a move in the industry towards larger wind turbines, we must make sure that we are well equipped to assess proposals.
“While onshore wind turbines can help meet the needs of the future, we must also preserve the landscapes that attract visitors and provide quality of life for residents.”
Send comments via email to [email protected] or post to Development Planning, Dumfries and Galloway Council, English Street, Dumfries, DG1 2DD.
For more information on the draft guidance and the consultation process, visit www.dumgal.gov.uk/consultations
The consultation runs until December 20.
