Home / Environment / Dark Sky Fears Rise Over Scottish Energy Park
Dark Sky Fears Rise Over Scottish Energy Park
13 Apr
Summary
- A 90m weather mast proposal faces scrutiny for dark sky impact.
- Local community council objects, citing harm to dark sky designation.
- Energy park developers state it will be 'inconspicuous as possible'.
Plans for a weather mast at a proposed energy park in southern Scotland are facing renewed opposition due to concerns about the impact on the region's dark sky status. Dumfries and Galloway Council is considering approving the 90-meter mast for the Lairdmannoch development near Gatehouse of Fleet.
Community councils have argued that the mast's lighting could compromise the nearby Dark Sky Park designation. While the energy park itself is outside the park's designated area and buffer zone, campaigners fear turbines and aviation lights will be visible. The developer, Wind2, acknowledges the value of preserving dark skies and states the energy park could power 67,000 homes, generating over £12 million for a community fund.
Opponents suggest delaying any decision on the mast until the main energy park application is resolved, warning that approving it now could set an undesirable precedent. The council has until May 29 to submit its consultation response regarding the mast proposal.
