Published: Wednesday, 14th July, 2010 11:26am

Wind farm plans go on show to public

by Jamie MacDonald

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The view of the turbines as they would appear from Alloa Tower.

MEMBERS of the public had the chance to inspect plans to install giant wind turbines in Alloa at an exhibition last week.

Four 125-metre high and 2.5 mega-watt turbines have been proposed for installation by Partnerships for Renewables (PfR) at the Forthbank amenity site next to the River Forth.

If given the go ahead, the wind farm would be capable of providing 26GWH - enough energy to power 5800 households.

Locals were given the chance at the Bowmar Centre to view the plans and to discuss their thoughts with PfR representatives.

Craig Mullen, communications officer for PfR, told the Advertiser, "We were pleased at the turnout last night and people were interested in many aspects of the project.

"Main issues were local ecology and the wetlands, which we've addressed through a thorough ornithology study. We are working in partnership with local people to make this a more accessible area for people."

He added, "There were some comments regarding the visual impact of the turbines and the noise but we will be carrying out a full visual and noise study as part of any environmental impact assessment prior to submission."

It is anticipated that the turbines would save 11,300 tonnes of carbon dioxide from being produced per annum.

PfR say they have consulted with groups such as the RSPB over the plans and are also examining how and if the turbines would impact the local bat population.

Khalid Hussain, project developed for PfR, said, "Previously it has been positively received.

"There seems to be a lot of interest in the ecology, ornithology, noise, civil aviation impact and the affect on mobile phones. There is a lot of factors and we bring this all together and come up with a solution."

PfR hope to put their final proposal before Clackmannanshire Council in the autumn and if all goes to plan the turbines could be operational in around two years.

Ian Gordon, from Tillicoultry Community Council, was not overly impressed with what he saw.

He said, "Generally I don't like wind turbines. These ones are better than the average because there is only four of them. They are intrusive and they are not terribly efficient."

Bob Imrie, from Alloa, was unhappy with the thought of having four giant turbines near his home and raised concerns for the safety of local and migratory birds.

He added, "I am concerned about the noise and because it is near the wetlands. Is it worth ruining the area for this?"

PfR say they will welcome any further comments and are committed to ensuring that all issues are addressed. They can be contacted at pfr@communityrelations.co.uk or by phone 0800 731 7395.