A renewables company has published a survey which it claims proves the majority of residents are in favour of a wind farm being constructed five miles north-west of Kirriemuir.
Realise Renewables says it canvassed the opinions of people in the area via two public exhibitions, an online consultation and door-to-door visits.
The results show that 57% of those who participated either supported or strongly supported proposals for the development which would be called Carrach Wind Farm and could potentially generate around £40,000 a year for the local economy.
However, the project which has been driven by local landowners in nearby Kingoldrum also attracted disapproval from some in the area, with 35% of respondents objecting or strongly objecting to the plans.
Many voiced concerns on the grounds of visual impact, construction and ecology but others believed the project would be beneficial as it would bring jobs to the area and funding to the community, as well as diversify the rural economy.
Co-founder Alistair Lang said, “We are very grateful to all those people who came to the exhibitions, visited the website and took time to fill in the door-to-door surveys. We received a thoughtful set of responses from across the wider Kirriemuir area.
“It’s clear that a large majority of local people responding to the survey support the wind farm. But, while we are happy with the result, it still points to significant numbers who have concerns.
“We have appreciated all the feedback received and where possible we are trying to address areas of concern and provide additional information.
“We are confident that the ecological surveys and the plans for construction and restoration of the site are robust but acknowledge that there are still those who are sceptical who will want to see further detail when our work on the application is finalised.”
The consultation exercise was arranged before a planning application was submitted to Angus Council to allow those living nearby a chance to see the proposals at an early stage.
It comes just as ScottishPower Renewables has arranged a public meeting for June 21 to discuss similar proposals for a wind farm at nearby Alyth.