Wind farm policy review for Council
Last updated | 31/05/2008
Perth & Kinross Council's wind energy policy could be reviewed under proposals going before the Enterprise and Infrastructure Committee on Wednesday 4 June.
Members will be asked to approve a plan to allow a review of the wind energy policy and guidelines, and to commence the preparation of draft strategic local guidance for wind energy developments.
Councillors will hear that the introduction of new national planning policy means a review is necessary. Scottish Planning Policy 6 (SPP6) sets out how the Scottish Government expects the planning system to manage the process of encouraging, approving and implementing renewable energy proposals when preparing development plans and determining planning applications.
Committee Convener, Councillor John Kellas, said: "The Scottish Government has said that 50% of our electricity should come form renewable sources by 2020.
"It is therefore essential for us as a Council that we have up-to-date planning policy and guidance at a local level. While there is general support for renewable energy developments the Scottish Government has made it clear that this is not to be at the expense of the environment or local communities. Consequently, all local councils have to prepare and review guidance for wind energy developments and have it approved and operational by the end of this year. The Scottish Government is assisting this process by providing support from consultants.
"We are on top of this issue and will develop a robust strategy and detailed policy guidance for assessing wind farm proposals in our area.
"Members will also be briefed at the committee meeting on the results of recent public enquiries on wind farms, so they are kept fully up-to-date on all the issues surrounding this complex area of planning law."
