Plans to develop a 10-turbine wind farm in Dumfries and Galloway has been approved by the Scottish Government.

The move comes despite objections to the scheme, according to reports.

The local authority had previously refused permission for the development at Minnygap Heights, located near Moffat. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) had objected to the plans, claiming it would interfere with seismic monitoring at Eskdalemuir. The developers, Renewable Energy Systems (RES) then appealed the decision by the Council.


An independent reporter was appointed to decide on the future of the project.

Commenting on the ruling, Graeme Kerr, Development Project Manager, said: "RES firmly believes that Minnygap is a well located site for a wind farm and we are delighted with the decision made by the Scottish Government.

"The wind farm will generate clean and sustainable electricity which will help to meet Scotland's ambitious renewable energy target. We are pleased that the reporter agreed that Minnygap will not have a significant impact on the landscape or tourism in the area.

"We look forward to working with the local community as we prepare the project for construction."

(JP)