Councillors have ignored officials’ recommendations and turned down plans for a wind-monitoring mast on a popular Fife visitor attraction.
Banks Renewables wanted to build an 80-metre anemometer mast to the south east of Hilton of Beath Farm.
The proposed site encroaches on the Lomond Hill Regional Park, Lochore Meadows Country Park, Clune wildlife site and Hilton of Beath wildlife site.
Some 26 objections had been received but council officials recommended it be conditionally approved.
Council leader Alex Rowley said he believed the area was wrong for this type of development.
”This sits right on the country park and therefore it is a major intrusion. It would have a negative impact on the park, with its amazing scenery. It draws in over 600,000 visitors a year; it is one of the best visitor attractions in Fife.”
But SNP councillor Ian Chisholm stated that he supported the officers’ recommendations.
”If we do not have sound material reasons and the fact that there may be potential for a future windfarm isn’t material reason would mean the council would be likely to lose an appeal, which would be likely to cost several thousand pounds.”
Mr Rowley said the reason for refusal should be its visual intrusion on the country park.
Councillors agreed by six votes to two to refuse planning permission.