The Ministry of Defence has withdrawn an objection to the wind farm plans proposed at Knockendurrick, east of Gatehouse of Fleet.

Last November (2013), it was reported that the official objection had been made due to low flying training exercises regularly carried out in the area.

However, following a period of consultation on the specifics of the proposed wind farm and whether this would have any potential impact on military activities, the objection has now been withdrawn.

The plans for the seven turbine, 23.8MW wind farm were originally submitted to Dumfries and Galloway Council by renewable energy company Banks Renewables in October 2013.

Colin Anderson, director at Banks Renewables, said: “This type of objection is not uncommon and we were confident it would be removed when we had the chance to fully discuss the MOD’s comments with a view to resolving them.

“This is great news as it will allow the council to move forward with their decision making process. There is a great deal of support for our proposals in the local community and we are hoping this planning application will be approved so we can start delivering the numerous benefits to the area.”

With Banks Renewables commitment to using local firms wherever possible as part of the project, it’s estimated that construction work on the site would inject at least £5 million into the local economy, while also creating meaningful job opportunities in the area.

Contracts would be required for construction and maintenance, ground works, quarry and building products, plant hire and haulage, waste solutions, fencing, fabrication, accommodation, aggregates, utilities, professional services, hospitality and many more services.

On top of that, the Community Partnership approach to the scheme would see local people share 3% of the site’s gross revenue, which is estimated to contribute up to £6.5 million toward supporting local community intiatives over the 25 years of the development.

That money would be directed into projects identified and backed by local people, including job and training creation schemes. Banks Renewables is in discussions with Dumfries & Galloway Council and with local colleges and businesses to agree how best to deliver a targeted employment and training initiative.

Elsewhere the local community’s share of wind farm revenues could also be invested into providing vital community infrastructure, delivery of major environmental projects and direct funding into community groups.

The Hamilton based company recently announced that, if approved, the Knockendurrick site could be connected to the national grid by 2016.

Colin continued: “It’s exciting to know that if it is approved, Knockendurrick could be live within two years and delivering real benefits to the local community.

“We are grateful for the feedback and support we have had from local people and businesses, who acknowledge the many, long-term benefits it will bring to the area at a time when public sector spending cuts are biting deep.

“We hope all of those who support the wind farm proposals will express that support to their local councillors to help them make the best decision for the area.”

To register your support for the proposed Knockendurrick Wind Farm please visit http://www.banksgroup.co.uk/knockendurrick/support-this-project/.

Banks Renewables is part of the Banks Group (www.banksgroup.co.uk), a family firm founded in 1976, which now employs more than 420 people in the renewable energy, property and mining sectors.