A senior Scottish Government minister has stressed he played no part in the decision to approve a controversial wind farm in Highland Perthshire.
North Tayside MSP John Swinney told The Courier he was not involved in approval of the Calliachar proposal, and said he “clearly understood” the frustration of local residents.
Perth and North Perthshire MP Pete Wishart branded the decision “disappointing.”
The Scottish Government was accused of betraying residents after ministers gave plans the go-ahead after it had been rejected by Perth and Kinross Council.
Salt was rubbed in the local authority’s wound last week when it was confirmed it would have to pick up the tab for the applicant’s legal fees.
Mr Swinney took no issue with the reporter’s decision and defended planning minister Stewart Stevenson, insisting he had “little choice” in the matter.
“I clearly understand concerns about the decision to approve the Calliachar wind farm as I expressed my own concerns and those of my constituents about this development,” the MSP said. “The independent reporter looked at this issue on the basis of planning policy and indicated there was no basis for turning it down.
“This was the second time this proposal was considered at a public inquiry and recommended for approval. That meant the planning minister Stewart Stevenson had little choice in the matter as to refuse the proposal would have run the risk of being overturned in a court challenge with significant implications.”
Mr Swinney nevertheless distanced himself from the decision. “As the constituency MSP I am, of course, debarred from being involved in the government’s decision on this matter,” he continued.
“On the question of costs being awarded against Perth and Kinross Council, that was the view of the reporter and councillors were warned this was a likely danger if the revised application was turned down.”
Mr Wishart said residents who fought tooth and nail against the proposal would be devastated. “There are tough conditions attached to this application and I will work to ensure that these are vigorously applied,” he added.
Photo courtesy of Stewart Lloyd-Jones.