Holy Isle Wind Turbines Approved

North Ayrshire Council have given approval for the erection of 5 (20.2m high to blade tip) turbines, comprising of 2 turbines at south end of Holy Isle and 3 at north end. A number of conditions have been imposed by NAC:

1. To protect visual amenity and the landscape qualities of the wider area.
2. To ensure that birds, bats, otters and other protected species are not adversely affected by the proposal.
3. In recognition of the archaeological significance of the site.
4. To protect the amenity of neighbours from noise.
5. To protect the landscape qualities of the area.
6. In the interest of the proper planning of the area.

The Voice has supported this application from the beginning but is also pleased to see the above conditions imposed. Unfortunately the tone of the discussions and objections to the planning application has been most disappointing, with far too many examples of prejudice and ignorance from residents both of Arran and elsewhere. The Voice also considers, however, that the Holy Isle community itself could have made much more effort to engage the wider Arran community in explanation and exploration of their plans.