Glen App and Loch Ree

Scottish Power Renewables has gained approval for an 11 turbine wind farm on a site to the north east of Stranraer. 

RSPB Scotland objected to the proposals, raising concerns about potential impacts to hen harrier.  The site is surrounded on three sides by the Glen App and Galloway Moors Special Protection Area (SPA), an internationally important wildlife site designated due to its importance for breeding hen harriers. 

South Ayrshire Council approved the application in June 2015 subject to a number of conditions including requirements for habitat management and monitoring. We are disappointed that Scottish Power Renewables is progressing wind farm project in such a sensitive location but continue to engage with the development through the habitat management group to ensure any impacts are minimised.

Even with mitigation, this development leaves outstanding threats and uncertainties over the potential impact on the SPA, which is located to the north, east and south of the site.

While we support the use of renewable energy, we believe wind farms must be carefully sited to avoid negative impacts on sites and species of conservation importance. 

We consider that there are alternative, less environmentally damaging development sites which could contribute to meeting Scotland's renewable energy needs.

We do not believe that this site is suitable for a major windfarm. Whilst the windfarm is not be located on the SPA itself, it still increases risk to the important hen harrier population through effects such as disturbance, collision and loss of foraging and breeding habitat. 

RSPB Scotland objected to the planning application in December 2012.  The application was approved in June 2015 but we continue to provide advice in relation to the relevant planning conditions concerning habitat management and monitoring for hen harrier.  

• June 2015
  South Ayrshire Council approve the planning application
• December 2012
  RSPB Scotland objects to the planning application
• September 2012
  Planning application and Environmental Statement submitted
• February 2011
  RSPB scoping response submitted
• December 2010
  Scoping Report submitted for consultation

• Bird guide: hen harrier

Useful websites

• Scottish Power Renewables - Glen App Wind Farm