A SPEYSIDE WINDFARM first given approval by the Scottish Government four years ago in the face of hundreds of objections is set to go ahead.
Developers say they are ready to begin work on the Dorenell site near Lower Cabrach that will see 59 turbines created on a project that is reported to be worth £250million.
The development on the Glenfiddich Estate could produce 200mw of power – and despite the strong opposition EDF Energy say they are confident that the majority of critics have been won around to the project.
Four surroundings communities in Dufftown, Glenlivet, Glen Rinnes and Cabrach will share an annual investment of around £1million in each of the next 30 years as a result of the development.
Local councillor Mike McConnachie admitted that pledge has “helped put most objections in the shade”. He added: “I think the majority of people are now in favour of the site, with the financial and economic benefits it will bring the surrounding area.”
It is expected that the windfarm will be ready to pump in to the national grid by 2018, with groundworks expected to start on the site early in the new year.