Dumfries and Galloway residents urged to back call for pause on renewable energy projects
Dumfries and Galloway residents are being urged to back a call for a pause on renewable energy developments.
More than 50 community councils in the Highlands want new projects such as windfarms and battery storage schemes temporarily put on hold until a clear national energy strategy is in place.
And Galloway and West Dumfries MSP Finlay Carson is calling on community councils and groups across the region to support their efforts.
He said: ''This is exactly the kind of message we need to send from Galloway. Our region is facing an onslaught of wind farms, pylons, and battery storage proposals – often with little or no meaningful consultation.
'Local voices are being ignored, and our landscapes and livelihoods are at risk.
'They are industrial-scale developments imposed on rural areas with no regard for the cumulative impact on our environment, tourism, or quality of life.
'While we must continue to tackle climate change, we cannot do so at the expense of our rural communities, our natural environment, and our democratic processes.
'The current approach to planning right across Scotland is fragmented and unfair, and it risks undermining the very fabric of our rural way of life.
'I continue to urge the Scottish Government to listen to the voices of local people and to act now to ensure that development is both sustainable and just.'
There was anger earlier this year when the Scottish Government approved the Kendoon to Tongland pylon scheme – even though a public inquiry led to the reporter recommending it is refused.
The community councils want 'meaningful community consultation and respect for local democratic decisions', as well as a national planning inquiry into the cumulative impact of energy infrastructure and a pause on major applications until a clear national strategy is in place.
Community councils and groups who back the plea are asked to send a short statement of support to cameron.kemp.kbcc@gmail.com by August 10.
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