Local Widlife Found Due To Wind Farm Developer

OnPath Energy Press releases

Image of a Wind Farm

Hamilton-based Banks Renewables, has discovered a wide range of animal and plant life in the area it is stating that their development of wind farms would enhance local ecology.

The company is wishing to establish 10 wind turbines in the areas of: Knockendurrick, between Kirkcudbright and Castle Douglas in Dumfries and Galloway. It has been shown that then land is home to vast range of birds, bats and other mammals, along with fish, toads, snakes and lizards.

Colin Anderson, the director at Banks Renewables, said: “We’ve carried out one of the most detailed wildlife studies this area has ever seen, because it is crucial we understand the complex web of life on the site.

“That way, if our plans are given the go-ahead we can take every possible step to make sure our development will further enhance the wildlife in the area as well as being designed with sensitivity to protect the habitats that already exist.

“In the meantime, we really hope people in this part of Dumfries and Galloway will be interested to learn about the wide and varied plants and animals which are to be found in this part of the world.

Due to Banks Renewables following its care approach at development, it carries out thorough risk assessments before even the planning application stage is made. At Knockendurrick, independent experts undertook in a two year-long study of the area to make sure it was fit to start planning.

During the breeding bird survey in 2012, 61 species were recorded and Banks Renewables stated that the proposed wind farm will not affect birds that are of national concern, for example species such as: Oystercatcher, Lapwing, Snipe, Cuckoo, Tawny Owl, Raven, Grasshopper Warbler, Redstart, Whinchat, Wheatear, Tree Pipit, Linnet, Crossbill and Yellowhammer.

The company has already made a start on a series of meetings with communities in the area to gauge interest in the idea of a community wind farm partnership. If such a partnership is established, it could see communities earn a share of wind farm revenues, with an additional option to buy equity.

Similar projects by the company have resulted in the creation of jobs and training initiatives, provision of community infrastructure, delivery of major environmental projects and direct funding into community groups.

Banks Renewables is part of the Banks Group which is a family firm founded in 1976 and they now employs 400 people in the renewable energy, property and mining sectors. The company’s development with care approach is the base of which all community consultation and ensures environmental excellence is provided. 

Issued on behalf of Banks Renewables by www.holyroodpr.co.uk