Strath Oykel Forest wind farm approved despite local opposition

Strath Oykel Forest is popular for its green landscapes, varied wildlife and busy salmon fisheries.

But it could soon be home to 200 metre tall wind turbines.

Local campaigners have fought against the development for years and warned it will drive people out of the area.

“People are already thinking about leaving”, said Shona Paterson of Creich Community Council.

“Fishermen are already talking about not coming if you have these hills totally covered in wind turbines,” she added.

Tisi Dutton, from local campaign group No Ring of Steel, said: “It would create industrialisation of what should be a biodiverse rural landscape.

“We see white tailed eagles, golden eagles, hen harriers, all these marvelous birds that exist here, bats as well. It’s a really vibrant landscape in biodiversity terms.

“We need turbines within the UK, but no more here.”

More than 150 objections were sent to Highland Council when plans were tabled in 2022.

The local authority rejected those plans unanimously.

The Scottish Government asked them to reconsider that decision, but the council stuck to their original decision.

A public inquiry then took place in October last year.

Reporters working on behalf of the government recommended that the plans be refused.

But earlier this month, this government gave the development the green light.

It led to claims of an “unfair” and “undemocratic” process from campaigners, but the Scottish Government says “bold action” is required to reach its net zero goals.

A spokesperson said: “We need bold action to tackle the climate emergency and Scotland has extensive renewable generation capabilities with which to accelerate the just transition to net zero by 2045. We are clear that increasing renewable energy must benefit people across Scotland.

“Potential impacts on communities, nature and cultural heritage, including the cumulative effects of developments, are important considerations in the decision-making process.

“The Scottish ministers have given full detailed reasons in their determination of this wind farm which is available to view on the Scottish Government’s website.”