A NEW wind farm could be popping up in the Ochils if proposals get the green light.

Three turbines, with a maximum blade tip height of 135m from ground level, are proposed on a site adjacent to the operational Burnfoot Hill Wind Farm.

With a capacity of 10.8MW, the new Burnfoot East Wind Farm is likely to generate up to around 25,500MWh a year if it gets the go-ahead.

Together with the already existing 18 turbines, a combined capacity of 42MW could power all of Clackmannanshire's homes, operating on a capacity factor of 27 per cent.

Developers Wind Prospect Developments Ltd say the final layout for the site is the result of a very thorough design process, following detailed environmental surveys and an extensive consultation process.

They say the plans consider, amongst other matters, the potential impacts on the local ecology, cultural heritage, landscape and visual effects.

The green development will also contribute towards reducing Scotland's carbon emissions – something the nation aspires to become a world leader in.

Local residents are being invited to an information event in the area, where they will have the chance to discuss the proposals with the Wind Prospect team.

Karen Thorburn, development manager at the company, said: “The submission of the planning application follows an eight month period of extensive consultation with the local community about the project, which has helped to influence the design of the proposed wind farm.

“We would like to thank the local community who have given their time to consult with us throughout the development process.

“We look forward to meeting local residents again at the information events which will be held on February 15 at Devonvale Hall, Tillicoultry, and on February 16 at the Moray Institute, Blackford, between the hours of 3pm and 7pm.

“Comments on the planning application should be submitted directly to Clackmannanshire Council using the reference number 17/00026/FULL. The council website should be consulted for the deadline for submitting representations.”

A benefits package worth more than £5,000 MW per annum through the operational lifetime of the project will also be offered to the community, building on the funding scheme associated with the already existing wind farm.

Dollar Glen Football Club, Strathdevon Primary Parent Council, Alva Bowling Club and Tillicoultry Out-of-School Care Club have all accessed the funds since the site began generating low carbon electricity in 2010.

In addition, an annual payment has been made to the Ochils Mountain Rescue Team and a cash boost has been provided towards a Land Rover, which assists the team when attending emergencies.

To apply for a cash boost, visit foundationscotland.org.uk

The wind farm originally started with 13 turbines and has seen two extensions since, the six turbine Rhodders Wind Farm with a further two turbines were also added later.