Windfarm firm blasts Scoophill decision

THE developers of the Scoophill windfarm have expressed their disappointment at the scheme’s refusal.

It was announced last week that the 60-turbine scheme and a battery energy system proposed by Community Windpower Ltd (CWP) five kilometres south-east of the town was refused by the Scottish Government following a public enquiry.

According to the decision letter, the main determining issues for the decision included: landscape and visual effects, impact on Eskdalemuir Seismological Recording Station and Array and economic impact, including effects on tourism among others.

Reacting to the decision, Rod Wood MBE, managing director of CWP Energy, said: “It’s a disappointment that a £1 billion investment from a UK business has been turned down without any tangible engagement from both governments.

“Great claims are made about creating a pro-growth environment and encouraging investment in infrastructure to reduce bills for consumers.

“Post-Brexit, investors had hoped for a more pro-business and pro-growth environment that creates jobs and a future. This refusal is a case in point that blockers remain at the heart of government, and nothing’s changed.”