Plans for a new wind farm in South Lanarkshire have been given the green light by the Scottish Government.

The granting of planning permission  for Middle Muir Wind Farm, North of Crawfordjohn is a landmark decision, as 7 of the 15 turbines within the wind farm reach to a height of 152m, the highest turbines approved on the UK mainland.

This ensures that the turbines are able to maximise the electricity generated from the available wind resource, which is good for both the environment and the economy.

The wind farm had already received the backing of South Lanarkshire Council following an extensive and thorough period of community consultation and technical assessment.

Delighted with the decision, Colin Anderson, development director of Banks Renewables, has praised both South Lanarkshire Council and the Scottish Government for their forward looking approach to sustainable development.

He said: “The Scottish Government and South Lanarkshire Council have been extremely diligent during the entire process and we would like to thank them for the professional way in which the process has been run leading up to this important decision which will help bring more jobs, investment and carbon free power to South Lanarkshire.

“Banks Renewables’ Development with Care approach has meant that Middle Muir Wind Farm is not only sympathetic to its surrounding landscape, but will directly support the communities in which it will sit.

“The Middlemuir Community Fund, to be managed by South Lanarkshire Council, will support the many groups and clubs active in the area and will fund many worthwhile projects that are hugely important to local people over the life of the wind farm.

“The £6.37 million fund has already made a commitment of over £600,000 into a new employment and training program, to be delivered in partnership with South Lanarkshire Council.  This will seek to increase the opportunities and prospects of local people and businesses – helping around 180 people over the five year term of the programme.

“We have also made a clear commitment to maximise the use of local contractors and businesses during construction and future operation of the wind farm. This decision will therefore be welcomed by many people and businesses across South Lanarkshire.”

The 51MW Middlemuir Wind Farm, will produce enough clean, green energy to power around 28,253 homes.

Colin added: “As a company based in South Lanarkshire we understand the tough economic times the area has had to deal with over the past few years. We are especially pleased therefore that in making this important and welcomed decision, the Scottish Government has created the clear opportunity for us to support a bright new future for the area and to deliver a substantial and long lasting legacy.”