Campaigners fury over energy park plans at hidden Perthshire beauty spot

Campaigners are angry over plans to build a huge energy park in one of Perthshire’s hidden beauty spots.

Developers Eurowind Energy Limited want to build eight wind turbines with blade tips up to 200 metres high on land within the Abercairny Estate near Crieff.

The site would be visible from Fowlis Wester and next to Meallbrodden Loch.

The Danish company behind it says the 100 MW energy park would be able to power the equivalent of 74,000 homes.

But neighbours are worried about the impact it would have on visitor numbers and the beauty spot.

Jim McColl from East Strathearn Community Council told STV News: “Tourism is a big thing, all over Scotland and in this area.

“We have Americans come here every week, on luxury cycling tours. They cycle over the hill from Buchanty.

“I’ve spoken to them about it. They say ‘oh gosh, why would you want to put this in such a beautiful place’.”

Concerned residents put forward their views at a community meeting in Fowlis Wester on Saturday.

They say there are plans for nine wind farms in the region, totalling 99 turbines.

It follows similar concerns to planned energy infrastructure in the Scottish Borders and Highlands.

Highland councillor Helen Crawford said: “There are some basic asks, for our Government.

“Do your homework. Have a pause until you bring forward a stand alone national, holistic energy plan.

“Because that’s not been done yet and we are consenting major energy infrastructure without that plan being in place.”

The Scottish Government – which will decide whether or not approve some of these plans – says it will take full account of community concerns and environmental issues.

One of the proposed developers – Eurowind Energy – says it will review community feedback ahead of a second consultation later this year.