projectsSite Selection
Following a screening process that reviewed a number of potential sites in Scotland, Hill of Finavon was chosen as being the most viable. An application for the development of a wind project should be assessed in the context of national policy and guidance; the local planning authority development plan; and supplementary planning guidance. The planning framework for the area is defined within the Angus Development Plans which consist of Dundee, and Angus Structure Plan (Approved 2002); and The Angus Local Plan Review (Adopted 2009). It is our assessment that Hill of Finavon wind cluster is consistent with national and local planning policy and guidance.
Key factors in determining the potential suitability of a site for wind development are:
- A good wind resource
- Nearby grid capacity
- Provision for access
- The absence of environmental and planning designations
Once selected, the available land at Hill of Finavon underwent a rigorous screening process to determine the appropriate number of turbines for this location. The constraints that were considered included:
- Ecology
- Cultural heritage
- Hydrology
- Noise
- Shadow flicker
- Electromagnetic interference
Landscape and visual strategies were then applied in order to help achieve the best layout in terms of the visual impact on the surrounding location.
Hill of Finavon layout
Construction and Access
Subject to planning, once work starts on site, the three turbines will be transported from Aberdeen and travel south via the A90 to Finavon. It is anticipated the construction phase of the project will last approximately three to five months. We propose to source stone from a local quarry for the site tracks. Once construction of the wind cluster is complete, our aim is to return the existing land around the turbines to its former use as improved grazing.
