Consultation Launched on New Wind Energy Landscape Sensitivity Guidance

Dumfries and Galloway Council is inviting the public and interested stakeholders to participate in a consultation on the Draft Wind Energy Landscape Sensitivity Study Supplementary Guidance. This document is proposed as an update to the council’s existing framework for assessing the impact of onshore wind energy developments on the region’s diverse landscapes and high-quality scenery.

The consultation, open until December 20, seeks feedback on new guidance that will replace the Wind Farm Landscape Capacity Study, last revised in 2017. Since then, Dumfries and Galloway has seen increased interest in wind energy projects, including applications for taller turbines exceeding 150 meters. Landscape changes due to ongoing wind farm developments, updates to NatureScot’s landscape study guidelines, and the adoption of the National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4) all highlight the need for updated, informed guidance to manage future proposals effectively.

Ian Blake, chair of the council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee commented: “Our region is known for its rich landscapes – these are integral to the area’s identity and environmental heritage. As climate change mitigation and the transition to net-zero gain national importance, renewable energy projects are key to Scotland’s future. However, these projects must be balanced with the need to preserve the unique landscapes of Dumfries and Galloway. This draft guidance will provide the council with essential tools to evaluate the landscape impacts of wind energy proposals under current policy and environmental contexts.”

Public feedback is vital to shaping the final document. Those wishing to share their views can submit comments via email to ldp@dumgal.gov.uk or by mail to Development Planning, Dumfries and Galloway Council, c/o Council HQ, English Street, Dumfries, DG1 2DD.

Jackie McCamon, vice chair of the council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee added: “Our area has long been of interest to the renewables sector, and we expect this to continue. Some of our landscapes have already been changed by wind energy developments and with a move in the industry towards larger wind turbines, we must make sure that we are well equipped to assess proposals. While onshore wind turbines can help meet the needs of the future, we must also preserve the landscapes that attract visitors and provide quality of life for residents.”

All responses will be carefully reviewed, with proposed amendments submitted to the council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee for consideration. Should the document be adopted, it will serve as supplementary guidance to Policy IN2 of the Local Development Plan 2.

For more information on the Draft Wind Energy Landscape Sensitivity Study Supplementary Guidance and the consultation process, please visit www.dumgal.gov.uk/consultations

ENDS