Hands Off Our Hills

Campaigning Against The Industrial Wind Farms Nr Newton Stewart

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BLAIR HILL WIND FARM APPLICATION IMMINENT

Hands Off Our Hills has been made aware that RES are preparing to submit their application in regards to BLAIR HILL Wind Farm BY THE END OF FEBRUARY 2025

The proposed Blair Hill Wind Farm aims to introduce 14 industrial-scale wind turbines near Newton Stewart, with 12 turbines reaching a height of 250 metres and two standing at 210 metres. The site is located 2.5 km north-east of Newton Stewart, with its central coordinates approximately at Easting 241826, Northing 241826.

Due to their towering height and strategic positioning, these turbines could be visible from over 35 km away, depending on topography, existing structures, and vegetation. The potential landscape and visual impact of this development will be a major concern for the local community.

HOOH’s Response: A Detailed Review and Strong Objection

As part of our commitment to protecting Dumfries and Galloway’s natural landscape, Hands Off Our Hills (HOOH) will conduct a comprehensive review of the Blair Hill Wind Farm proposal. We will meticulously analyse the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), planning documents, and technical reports to identify key issues and submit a robust formal objection.

Additionally, we will equip our members with objection templates, guides, and submission tools to help individuals formally oppose this development. Every objection counts, and we strongly encourage the local community to take part in the process by submitting their concerns to the Scottish Government’s Energy Consents Unit (ECU) and Dumfries and Galloway Council.

Stay Informed & Get Involved

Please do not submit any objections until the application is officially live. Both the Energy Consents Unit (ECU) and Dumfries and Galloway Council will automatically reject premature submissions.

We will provide clear guidance on the appropriate time to submit your objection. Please stay tuned for updates via our website and Facebook page to ensure your objection is valid and counted.

Important Reference Information

  • Blair Hill Wind Farm Proposal Reference: ECU00004878
  • This reference number must be included in all objections submitted to the Energy Consents Unit (ECU) and Dumfries and Galloway Council.
Hands Off Our Hills Blair Hill Wind Farm
Challoch Solar Park 1024 359 Hands Off Our Hills

Challoch Solar Park

Grupotec and REG Power Management are proposing a massive solar park and battery energy storage facility northwest of Newton Stewart, with a generating capacity exceeding 20 MW. While renewable energy is important, the scale and location of this project raise serious concerns about its impact on our local community and environment.

Grupotec and REG Power Management are proposing a massive Solar Park and Battery Energy Storage facility (BESS) facility northwest of Newton Stewart in Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland.

Key Concerns:

  • Location: The site is just 2km from Newton Stewart, potentially affecting the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
  • Community Impact: Large-scale developments like this can disrupt local ecosystems, increase traffic during construction, and alter the rural character of the area.
  • Transparency: Although public consultations are planned, it’s vital to ensure the community’s voice is truly heard and not sidelined in favour of corporate interests.
Challoch Solar Park, Proposed Location Near Newton Stewart Dumfries and Galloway Scotland. Grupotec and REG Power Management are proposing a massive solar park and battery energy storage facility northwest of Newton Stewart, with a generating capacity exceeding 20 MW

Consultation Details:
Grupotec and REG Power have announced two consultation events:

  • 11th February 2025 (3 PM–7 PM) at McMillan Hall, Dashwood Square, Newton Stewart.
  • 11th March 2025 (3 PM–7 PM) at the same location.

These events are an opportunity for residents to ask questions, express concerns, and challenge the suitability of this development.

Take Action:
Let’s stand together to protect our local environment and community. Attend the consultations, share your concerns, and demand answers about how this project will impact Newton Stewart.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to scrutinise this proposal and advocate for responsible energy solutions that align with our community’s best interests.

Together, we can ensure that renewable energy development is both sustainable and respectful of our region’s unique heritage.

Hands Off Our Hills - Cree Valley Campaign Group
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GLENVERNOCH OBJECTION DOCUMENT



HANDS OFF OUR HILLS HAS SUBMITTED OUR OFFICIAL OBJECTION FOR GLENVERNOCH

As we present our objection document against the Glenvernoch Wind Farm to the ECU and Dumfries & Galloway Council, we wish to extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who contributed their time, expertise, and dedication to this endeavour. This document is the culmination of countless hours of research, writing, collaboration, and unwavering commitment by a group of passionate volunteers. Your efforts have been instrumental in articulating our shared vision for preserving the natural beauty and heritage of the Galloway Hills.

We recognise that this process has been as much about learning as it has been about advocacy. We understand that not everyone will agree with every point we have raised, and we acknowledge that there may be areas we have unintentionally overlooked. However, this journey has proven one thing above all else: the extraordinary determination and resilience of a community working together for a common cause.

The outcome of this project is a testament to the power of collaboration. Each contribution (whether through technical expertise, historical knowledge, ecological insight, or practical support) has been invaluable. Together, we have created a document that stands as a robust, fact-driven objection to the Glenvernoch Wind Farm proposal, reflecting our collective commitment to protecting the Galloway Hills for generations to come.

From everyone at Hands Off Our Hills, thank you for standing with us. Your support has made a significant difference, and we look forward to continuing this journey together, united by our shared dedication to safeguarding the natural and cultural treasures of our region, and making it perfectly clear to big energy.. Keep Your Hands Off Our Hills.

Thank you,
Hands Off Our Hills Admin Team.

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GLENVERNOCH APPLICATION LIVE



DEADLINE – 15th JANUARY 2025

The proposed Glenvernoch Industrial Wind Turbine Site will feature 13 turbines, each reaching a height of 200 metres, located 2.8 km south-west of Glentrool. The central point of the site is approximately at Easting 235247 and Northing 573276. Due to the height and positioning, each turbine may be visible from over 25 km away, depending on surrounding landscapes, structures, and vegetation.

We have created a bespoken system which allows you to write a personal letter, without typing a word.. well expect your name and address and your email address, then tick a few boxes and within seconds you will have a unique lettter to print and mail via the post, or immediately email straight to the ECU and Council.

By the time it takes to boil the kettle, your letter is written, and submitted, job done.

Click here or the image below to get started:

OR DOWNLOAD OUR STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE ON HOW TO WRITE AN OBJECTION TO A TURBINE APPLICATION IN SCOTLAND

CLICK HERE

Important Note:

The Glenvernoch proposal is listed as ECU00004892. Please ensure this reference number is included in all correspondence with the ECU and Dumfries and Galloway Council.

For convenience, a direct link to the ECU is provided below for bookmarking:

Scottish Government – Energy Consents Unit – Application Details

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GLENVERNOCH APPLICATION IMMINENT 1024 683 Hands Off Our Hills

GLENVERNOCH APPLICATION IMMINENT

Hands Off Our Hills has been made aware that EnergieKontor are preparing to submit their application in regards to Glenvernoch Wind Farm on Monday 18th November 2024.

The proposed Glenvernoch Industrial Wind Turbine Site will feature 13 turbines, each reaching a height of 200 metres, located 2.8 km south-west of Glentrool. The central point of the site is approximately at Easting 235247 and Northing 573276. Due to the height and positioning, each turbine may be visible from over 25 km away, depending on surrounding landscapes, structures, and vegetation.

Hands Off Our Hills will be thoroughly reviewing the entire application, carefully scrutinising every detail, and preparing a robust objection based on our key concerns. Additionally, we will provide members with tools and templates to facilitate individual objections, which can be submitted directly to the Energy Consents Unit (ECU) and Dumfries and Galloway Council.

Please keep a close watch on our Facebook page and website for updates and guidance on submitting your own objections.

Important Note:

The Glenvernoch proposal is listed as ECU00004892. Please ensure this reference number is included in all correspondence with the ECU and Dumfries and Galloway Council.

For convenience, a direct link to the ECU is provided below for bookmarking:

Scottish Government – Energy Consents Unit – Application Details

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Industrial Wind Turbine Sites in Proposed New National Park
Recently we received an official response from the Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands, Mairi Gougeon, regarding the proposed amendments to the National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4) concerning industrial wind turbine sites, within a new national park.

In light of the ongoing confusion surrounding an image being frequently shared, which claims that industrial wind turbine sites will be permitted within the new national park, we felt it necessary to clarify what is actually being proposed and what this means for the development of new industrial wind turbine sites within a new national park.

– Introduction:

The Scottish Government is currently developing bespoke planning policies for industrial wind turbine sites, particularly in relation to the creation of new national parks, such as the proposed Galloway National Park. This report outlines the government’s position, focusing on the necessity of a tailored regulatory approach that balances the need for renewable energy projects with the protection of Scotland’s natural landscapes. Information is drawn from government consultations, official documents, and correspondence from the Scottish Government.

– Proposal for a New National Park:

As part of its broader strategy to combat climate change and biodiversity loss, the Scottish Government has proposed the creation of a new national park in Galloway. Public consultations, led by NatureScot, are currently in progress to evaluate the suitability of this area, engaging stakeholders from local communities, land-based industries, and environmental groups. This consultation will shape the park’s boundaries and functions, ensuring it aligns with the social, economic, and environmental needs of the region.

URL:
https://www.nature.scot/doc/national-park-proposal-galloway-reporter-plan

Hands Off Our Hills remains neutral on this matter and will continue to collaborate with all stakeholders in our efforts to prevent the development of industrial wind turbines, regardless of whether the Galloway National Park is established.

– Tailored Policies for Industrial Wind Turbine Sites:

There is a common misconception that the creation of a new national park will automatically allow the unrestricted development of industrial wind turbine sites within it. However, this is not the case. The Scottish Government has emphasised that any new policies related to industrial wind turbine sites will be bespoke to the new national park, with stricter regulatory frameworks than those applied to existing parks under National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4). These bespoke policies will enforce rigorous planning conditions to ensure that any new or existing wind energy projects adhere to national and local environmental protection standards.

URL:
https://www.gov.scot/publications/national-planning-framework-4/

At no point during the consultation process or in official documents has it been suggested that industrial wind turbine sites will be permitted without regulation. On the contrary, the Scottish Government has emphasised that any new wind turbine developments must demonstrate a clear need and will be subject to rigorous environmental and landscape impact assessments.

If these requirements are not met, it is likely that applications for industrial wind turbine sites within a proposed national park would be denied.

URL:
https://www.gov.scot/publications/development-plan-amendment-regulations-consultation-summary-responses/

– Consideration of Existing Industrial Wind Turbine Sites:

The Scottish Government must consider the presence of existing industrial wind turbine sites within the boundaries of any proposed national park. These sites may require upgrades, extensions, or modifications as technology advances. A blanket prohibition on turbines would significantly restrict the ability to replace outdated technologies with more efficient systems.

As these sites reach the end of their operational lifespan, it is the Scottish Government’s position to establish policies that allow for their continued operation or upgrading, subject to more stringent environmental standards.

However, it seems that this approach enables developers to continue applying for extensions or upgrades to existing sites under conditions similar to those outside national park boundaries, as is currently the case.

URL:
https://consult.gov.scot/local-government-and-communities/development-plan-amendment-regulations/

– Regulatory Amendment Process:

The regulations being introduced by the Scottish Government will allow for amendments to NPF4, tailored to the unique circumstances of a new national park. These amendments are designed to make the planning system more responsive to evolving needs such as the development of industrial wind turbine sites.

The amendment process consists of:

1. Engagement and Justification: Stakeholder engagement to justify amendments to the planning framework, particularly in relation to industrial wind turbine sites.

2. Preparation of Amendments: Following consultations, amendments will be prepared and scrutinised by Parliament, including statutory environmental assessments.

3. Adoption and Implementation: Once approved, these amendments will be incorporated into NPF4, ensuring that any new wind energy developments in the park are subject to the new, stricter regulatory framework.

– Important Consideration for Sharing Information:

When sharing information or summarising the amendments to NPF4, it is important to avoid presenting a blanket statement such as “turbines will be allowed within a new national park.” This statement is misleading and oversimplifies a position that is more nuanced than it suggests.

The amendments to NPF4 appear to focus primarily on safeguarding existing sites from policies that could limit their expansion or renewal, rather than providing definitive support for new industrial wind turbine developments within a new national park.

It is crucial to recognise that NPF4 is only one part of a broader regulatory framework, and misrepresenting these amendments could obscure this critical context.

A more accurate statement of the Scottish Government’s position under the proposed amendments to NPF4 would be:

“The proposed amendments to NPF4 will permit ‘new applications’ for industrial wind turbine sites within a new national park, marking a shift from the current position.”

“However, it is equally important to note that these applications will be subject to extensive requirements and stricter regulations. Without compelling evidence demonstrating the necessity of such developments, these applications are likely to face objection.”

– Hands Off Our Hills Focus:

Regardless of individual opinions on the establishment of a Galloway National Park, it is essential that we, as a group committed to opposing industrial wind turbine developments, set aside any differences on this issue.

Our primary focus here at Hands Off Our Hills remains unchanged: to prevent the construction of industrial wind turbine sites within the Galloway Hills.

Whether one supports or opposes the creation of a national park, we urge everyone to remain united in this shared objective and continue to reinforce our position, industrial wind turbine sites are not welcome on our hills.

Together, we can effectively resist these developments!

– For further details, please refer to the following URLs:

National Park Proposal for Galloway:
https://www.nature.scot/doc/national-park-proposal-galloway-reporter-plan

National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4):
https://www.gov.scot/publications/national-planning-framework-4/

Consultation Summary of Responses:
https://www.gov.scot/publications/development-plan-amendment-regulations-consultation-summary-responses/

Development Plan Amendment Regulations Consultation:
https://consult.gov.scot/local-government-and-communities/development-plan-amendment-regulations/

RES Community Liaison Group – 27/07/2024 Minutes 1024 768 Hands Off Our Hills

RES Community Liaison Group – 27/07/2024 Minutes


RES has instituted a Community Liaison Group (CLG) with the objective of establishing a platform for deliberation and the exchange of information. The primary purpose of this group is to foster an efficient channel of communication among RES, the local community, and stakeholders. Membership in the CLG will comprise locally elected representatives, community groups, and other pertinent stakeholders.

It is imperative to underscore that Hands Off Our Hills maintains NO affiliation or alignment with any of the member groups or participants associated with the RES Community Liaison Group. This initiative is perceived by us as a farcical public relations endeavour employed by RES to modify their planning application in response to community concerns and to gather additional information regarding opposition sentiments.

Consequently, it should come as no surprise that we will persist as vocal opponents of this corporate undertaking.

Hands Off Our Hills has uploaded a copy of these minutes to our servers and the 27th August 2024 : 7:00pm – 9:30pm are now available for viewing by clicking on the image below:

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RES Community Liaison Group – 18/06/2024 Minutes


RES has instituted a Community Liaison Group (CLG) with the objective of establishing a platform for deliberation and the exchange of information. The primary purpose of this group is to foster an efficient channel of communication among RES, the local community, and stakeholders. Membership in the CLG will comprise locally elected representatives, community groups, and other pertinent stakeholders.

It is imperative to underscore that Hands Off Our Hills maintains NO affiliation or alignment with any of the member groups or participants associated with the RES Community Liaison Group. This initiative is perceived by us as a farcical public relations endeavour employed by RES to modify their planning application in response to community concerns and to gather additional information regarding opposition sentiments.

Consequently, it should come as no surprise that we will persist as vocal opponents of this corporate undertaking.

Hands Off Our Hills has uploaded a copy of these minutes to our servers and the 18th June 2024 : 7:00pm – 9:30pm are now available for viewing by clicking on the image below:

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Community Engagement Event | NEWTON STEWART

Community Engagement Event Announcement in Newton Stewart at the McMillian Hall in Dashwood Square on Wednesday, 1st May 2024, between 3:00pm and 7:00pm.

Come along to the McMillan Hall situated in Dashwood Square, Newton Stewart, any time between 3:00pm and 7:00pm and participate in our upcoming Community Engagement Event.

This Community Engagement Event presents an opportunity for you to delve into the potential ramifications of the colossal industrial turbines, spanning heights of 200 to 250 meters, on various aspects such as the environment, wildlife, dark sky status, heightened flood risks throught the Cree Valley Community Area, as well as the potential impacts on personal health and the well-being of fellow residents across the Cree Valley Community.

Please also take the time to complete our comprehensive Community Engagement Questionnaire, ensuring your viewpoints and opinions of the matter are duly noted. Whether you harbour support or dissent towards the installation of Industrial Turbine Sites within the Cree Valley Community Area, your input holds significance and your voices counts.

Our Community Engagement Event allows you to uncover ‘The Facts’ often overlooked by the Scottish Government and companies such as RES and Energiekontor.

So why not join us, if you have a spare hour or two and partake?

Tea, coffee, and biscuits on the house!

Community Engagement Event | Newton Stewart | Cree Valley Community

*Please be rest assured, any personal information you provide will be treated with the utmost confidentiality. We are unwavering in our commitment to safeguarding your privacy and will adhere strictly to the stipulations outlined in The Data Protection Act 2018 and GDPR regulations. The statistical insights gleaned from your responses will serve as a cornerstone in shaping the direction of our advocacy efforts moving forward.

RES Community Liaison Group – 09/04/2024 Minutes 1024 768 Hands Off Our Hills

RES Community Liaison Group – 09/04/2024 Minutes


RES has instituted a Community Liaison Group (CLG) with the objective of establishing a platform for deliberation and the exchange of information. The primary purpose of this group is to foster an efficient channel of communication among RES, the local community, and stakeholders. Membership in the CLG will comprise locally elected representatives, community groups, and other pertinent stakeholders.

It is imperative to underscore that Hands Off Our Hills maintains NO affiliation or alignment with any of the member groups or participants associated with the RES Community Liaison Group. This initiative is perceived by us as a farcical public relations endeavour employed by RES to modify their planning application in response to community concerns and to gather additional information regarding opposition sentiments.

Consequently, it should come as no surprise that we will persist as vocal opponents of this corporate undertaking.

Hands Off Our Hills has uploaded a copy of these minutes to our servers and the 9th April 2024 : 7:00pm – 9:00pm are now available for viewing by clicking on the image below:

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