The Scottish government's decision to include Hunterston coal power scheme as a National Development in the National Planning Framework has been challenged by a judicial review.

Several organisations opposed to the scheme have formed a coalition in an attempt to have it halted and the number of objectors is nearing 20,000.

Director of WWF Scotland, Dr Richard Dixon, said: "With this huge public outcry, it is clear that a new coal-fired power station at Hunterston is not only unnecessary but it is also deeply unpopular.

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"We urge North Ayrshire Council and the Scottish government to listen to this growing groundswell of opinion and reject this backward proposal.

"Scotland does not need new coal, improved energy efficiency and increased use of Scotland's wealth of renewable energy is more than adequate."

Co-chair of Communities Opposed To New Coal At Hunterston (Conch), Tim Cowen, added: "Local opposition to the plans to build a dirty-coal power station remain undiminished.

"Local people are angry - the proposed coal station makes a mockery of Scotland's climate change targets and will damage public health. It would devastate a beautiful coastal area heavily reliant on tourism."

(JG/BMcC)