Wind farm approved after inquiry

Aberdeenshire Council refused the original proposals in 2007

A new wind farm in Aberdeenshire has been given the go-ahead, six years after the original application was lodged.

RWE Npower Renewables' eight-turbine development at the Kildrummy Estate, near Lumsden, had been refused planning permission after locals objected.

But permission has now been granted, after a public inquiry, held last year.

Some locals opposed the development, stating that it would have a negative impact on the look of the countryside.

Proposals for the wind farm were first announced in 2003.

An initial planning application was submitted to Aberdeenshire Council in December 2004, and a revised application was submitted two years later to address concerns raised by locals.

'Challenging journey'

In September 2007, Aberdeenshire Council refused the proposal, stating it would have an adverse impact on the landscape character of the area.

But RWE Npower Renewables was granted consent for their plans after a public inquiry was held in December.

Project manager Mark Crawford said: "This has been a long and challenging journey through the local planning system.

"The result will now finally allow us to commit our efforts fully to aiding the Scottish Government's target of producing 50% of electricity from renewable sources by 2020."