Planning has been approved for the extension of the Lochluichart wind farm.

Energy Minister Fergus Ewing approved the plans, which will see the number of turbines at the wind farm rise to 23 and create a total capacity of 69MW. This could power the equivalent of 32,568 homes, according to a statement released by the government.

Holyrood has also stated that the extension will create 20-30 jobs in the area during the 10 month construction period, with two permanent positions also being created.

Around £5.4- £7.2m is expected to be spent in the Highlands and Islands region during construction.

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The government says the local community will benefit from the extension, and that developers will pay £49,500 a year in benefit to the local community and £1.24m over the total period.

Energy Minister Fergus Ewing said: "The extension to the Lochluichart site will represent a significant boost to the local economy and create jobs during construction.

"Over the 25 years the extension will run, it is expected to generate £1.24m of money which will be invested in the local communities.

"Once it is up and running the wind farm will save thousands of tonnes of carbon dioxide each year, and will produce enough electricity to power the equivalent of nearly 9,000 homes.

"In consenting this application I have put in place a series of conditions to protect the outstanding natural habitats and landscapes and local communities."

Developers Infinergy Limited applied to the Scottish Government for an extension to the Lochuichart wind farm in August 2011. 124 objections were received and 9 representations in support.

(IT/GK)