An objection has been raised against the proposed Strathy South wind farm in Sutherland by the Highland Council.

SSE Renewables has described the decision as disappointing, but said it was looking forward to the next stage of the process where it says any "outstanding issues" can be resolved.

The application consists of 47 turbines and would have an installed capacity of up to 160MW. Located around 12km south of Strathy village, it is proposed the development will be built on an area of peatland that has already been left badly damaged by commercial forestry plantation.

In addition to generating renewable energy, SSE has said it has also committed to delivering a significant peatland restoration and conservation management plan, with some 32km of restorative work planned. A final decision on the proposals rests with Scottish Ministers.

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In a statement, the energy provider said that the objection by Councillors appears to be based on the position of Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) on what it considers to be "possible uncertainty over theoretical predicted collision risk".

That is, concerns have been raised about the wind farm's impact on birds in the area, with others claiming the peatlands could be restored without the need for turbines.

Colin Nicol, SSE's Lead Director of Wholesale Generation Development, said: "This is a very disappointing decision by Highland Council's North Planning Committee, particularly given the recommendation by planning officials to raise no objection to the project, and the host community council's formal support. We look forward to the next stage of the process to address the SNH issues.

"A great deal of hard work has gone into developing this project over the years working with the local community and key stakeholders. SSE is a responsible developer with a longstanding Highland heritage, this £200m project will deliver a significant contribution to renewable energy targets and jobs and substantial investment to an area of rural Scotland with a fragile economy."

Meanwhile, RSPB Scotland has welcomed the decision by the Highland Council's planning committee to send the application for public inquiry.

George Campbell, Regional Director of RSPB Scotland, said: "I am delighted by the Council's decision. This means that this highly controversial application will have to go to a public inquiry where it will attract very full scrutiny. We are confident that once it has gone through that process, Scottish Ministers will refuse consent."

(JP/IT)