Agenda THE HIGHLAND COUNCIL 2.1 Item INVERNESS, NAIRN AND BADENOCH AND STRATHSPEY PLI PLANNING APPLICATIONS COMMITTEE Report No 49/11 20 SEPTEMBER 2011

11/00955/S36 - DRUIM BA SUSTAINABLE ENERGY LTD DRUIM BA FOREST BLAIRMORE ESTATE, NORTH OF DRUMNADOCHIT.

Report by Head of Planning and Building Standards

SUMMARY

Description This is an application under Section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989 for a 23 turbine (69MW) wind farm within Druim Ba Forest, Blairmore Estate, Drumnadrochit.

Recommendation Given the expected adverse visual impact of the development on the locality surrounding the site a recommendation is made to object to this Section 36 Wind Farm application.

Ward 13 - Aird and Loch Ness

Development category Major Development

Pre-determination Not Required hearing

Reason referred to Section 36 Application Committee More than 5 objectors

1.0 PROPOSAL

1.1 The application is for a wind farm within the Druim Ba Forest in the Blairmore Estate 6km north of Drumnadrochit 16 km south west of Inverness. It has been submitted to the Scottish Government as an application under Section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989. As a statutory consultee the Council is required to submit its views to Ministers by 27 September 2011. Should Ministers ultimately approve the development, planning permission will be deemed to be granted under Section 57(2) of the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997.

1.2 The application is for the development of a wind farm, with a design capacity of 69MW and comprises the following main elements: -

• 23 wind turbines – hub height between 100 - 108m and rotor diameter 82m - 100m with expectation of maximum blade tip height of 149.5m depending on the final turbine selection. • 1 permanent anemometer mast (100m) • 13.9km of access tracks (8.6km existing / 5.3km new) • New access onto the A833, with additional exit points to the road network. • Control and telecom cabling ducts primarily adjacent to access tracks. • Electricity substation and control building. • A temporary construction compound. • A borrow pit • Temporary on-site concrete batching plant.

1.3 The operational lifespan of the wind turbines is 25 years after which time the development will be decommissioned, with above ground equipment being removed and site restoration being undertaken. Although not part of the current application, the development will require a connection to the national grid. This is indicated to be focused on a link with the new Knocknagael Substation south east of Inverness.

1.4 A new site access is proposed onto the A833 onto the A833 Drumnadrochit – Kiltarlity Road for all traffic, with existing estate / forest accesses being used for “exiting only” onto the A833 and onto the unclassified road between Glen Convinth and Abriachan. The A833 links southwards to the A82 Inverness Fort William Trunk Road and northwards, via the A862 Inverness – Beauly Road to the A9 Inverness to Wick Trunk Road.

1.5 The development is of a scale that requires to be supported by an Environmental Assessment under the Electricity Works (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Scotland) Regulations 2000. The Environmental Statement (ES) provides information on design, transport, economic impact, tourist impact, forestry management, landscape character, visual impact, habitats and vegetation, fauna, ornithology, cultural heritage, soil, peat, borrow pits, water, waste water, noise, shadow flicker, telecoms, aviation and construction.

2.0 SITE DESCRIPTION

2.1 The site lies entirely within Druim Ba Forest, a commercial conifer woodland on undulating ground generally above the 250 metres contour, with a site high point of 370m. The site presents as a dissected plateau on the southwest side of the Glen Convinth watershed which drains northwards to the Beauly Firth. The site is set 3 - 4 kilometres north of the hill tops which define the edge of the Great Glen between Drumnadrochit and Abriachan, including the hill tops of Cnoc Snataig (410m), Meall na h Eilrig (465m) and Carn na Leitire (434m).

2.2 The land surrounding the site includes a mixture of estate, forest and farm holdings of varying sizes together with a number (approx. 75) of individual private houses set within the communities of Abriachan, Convinth, Foxhole, Cragganvallie and Caiplich. A site close to the eastern edge of the site at Cragganvallie carries planning permission in principle for a single house (Ref 10/03358/FUL). Land use in the immediate area is rough grazings with hill tops to the west and east presenting as rugged moorland, with hilltops with rocky outcrops. Blairmore Estate sits at the top of Glen Convinth which descends to the north east onto well managed agricultural units, many with substantive tree lined fields. The lower area includes a number of well known estates including Beaufort Estate and Belladrum, both of which are close to Kiltarlity (5.6km from the nearest turbine). Further to the north are the principal communities of Beauly (10km) and Muir of Ord (13.5km).

2.3 Abriachan Forest Trust manages 534 hectares immediately south of Druim Ba Forest offering public access to a number of woodland paths, mountain bike trails and outdoor learning facilities. The community of Abriachan (3km) and Loch Ness / Great Glen (4km) lie further to the south, where a significant number of tourists use the main A82(T) road to and from Inverness to Drumnadrochit, Fort Augustus and Fort William. Many walkers use the Great Glen Way which runs south of the site.

2.4 When assessing a wind farm development site, consideration of similar developments within a 60km distance of the site is required. The list below presents the projects that are operational, approved or have been submitted but are not yet determined around this development site.

2.5 Operational Approved or Not yet Determined Under Construction

1. Farr Wind Farm 1. Lochluichart 1. Glen Kirk 2. Millennium (I, II and III) 2. Corriegarth 2. Tom Na Clach 3. Fairburn 3. Dunmaglass 3. Allt Duine 4. Novar (I &II) 4. Corriemollie 4. Nigg 5. Beinn Tharsuinn 5. Corriemony 6. Beinn Oighrean

3.0 PLANNING HISTORY

3.1 18.06.2010 Temporary planning permission granted for meteorological mast on Blairmore Estate (2 years) (10/01554/FUL). 18.06.2010 Temporary planning permission granted for meteorological mast on Blairmore Estate (2 years) (10/01555/FUL). 10 Dec 2009 Pre-Application Advice Pack (09/01785/PREAPP). 14.03.2007 Planning permission granted for 2 houses with outbuildings Druim Ba Forest Estate (06/01214/FULIN).

4.0 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

4.1 Although not required under the Electricity Act 1989 the applicant undertook pre application consultation consistent with the requirements for major planning applications.

4.2 The application was registered and advertised in The Scotsman, The Edinburgh Gazette, Inverness Courier and Ross-shire Journal as a development under the Electricity Act 1989, Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997 and The Electricity (Environmental Impact Assessment (Scotland) 2000. A 28 day period was allowed for comments to be submitted to the Scottish Government’s Energy Consents Unit, with a closing date of 22 April 2011. A further period of public consultation was undertaken following receipt of responses from most statutory consultees. The closing date for responses was 17 June 2011.

4.3 A total of 758 representations have been lodged with the Scottish Government, 330 against the development and 428 letters in support of the development. Representations have been copied to the Council by the Scottish Government. Appendix 1 provides the details of those making representations as highlighted within the Council’s eplanning portal. The slightly reduced number of representations listed is explained by the Council system of recording address points, rather than individuals. One representation has raised concern over how representations may have been canvassed. Regardless on how and who submits comments, the value of all representations is to ensure that the determining authority is aware of key issues, particularly material planning considerations, when undertaking its assessment of the application.

4.4 Objections have focused on the following key issues: -

• The visual impact of the development, with 23 turbines each 149.5m in height. • The turbines will dominate an area of considerable natural beauty. • The landscape in this area is in need of protection from industrialisation. • The turbines will be disproportionally high in relation to the landscape. • The visual impact will impact on Loch Ness and its environment. • The development will damage the area from becoming a world heritage site. • It will dominate Abriachan, changing its character out of all recognition. • The community of Kiltarlity would suffer from visual impact, noise pollution and pressure on the viability of businesses in the wake of the degraded landscape. • The development does not accord with the Development Plan nor the Highland Renewable Energy Strategy (HRES). • The negative impact on local tourism / visitor numbers in and around Glen Convinth, the Great Glen Way and travellers on local tourist routes such as the A833 between Kiltarlity and Drumnadrochit. • The development will be overwhelming given the cumulative impact of other wind farms in the area (developments approved – Farr & Fairburn and proposed - Invermoriston & Stronelairg) and the approved Beauly Denny 400kv grid line. • The effect of the turbines in terms of noise and shadow flicker, with many properties within 1km of the site. • The development will have an adverse impact on local properties including Beaufort Castle an historic Listed Building. • The development will adversely impact on the Abriachan Forest Trust’s walks, cycle ways and its educational area. • The noise nuisance from concrete batching within 600m of residential properties and the cemetery, as well as risk of pollution to the water supply. • The development will bring about considerable disruption to traffic and impact on local roads to the detriment of existing road users / safety of school children. • The development will have adverse impact on local heritage / archaeology which dates back into pre historic times / Pictish / Bronze Age. • The development will affect protected species such as Slavonian Grebe. • The area is home to wildlife / fauna / flora which should not be destroyed. • The key holing of the turbines will be disruptive to the forest and the desired screening of the turbine bases may not be realised. • Forests should not give way to sites for wind farms. • Wind farm projects are not economic / reliable / justifiable in overall cost terms. • Documents in support of the application are factually inaccurate - with many more houses in the locality than as shown on the maps; the visualisations are inaccurate; the shown route of the Great Glen Way is wrong; there are land ownership errors; tree felling in the area has made the site more visible; the development will not be served by mains drainage.

4.5 Supporters have focused on the following matters: -

• Support for renewable energy / wind farm technology. • It is vital that more energy is generated through renewable resources • The site has excellent wind resource. • Architecturally - turbines are elegant and dynamic additions to the landscape. • The project is consistent with Scottish government policy. • This site is good for development, good road access and is close to the grid. • It will boost local employment and be an economic stimulus. • It will be built within an existing mature forest, which will be maintained. • It is unlikely that environment / wildlife / tourism in the area will be affected. • There will be disruption to local communities during the building - but this is a short period compared with the life of a wind turbine. • Once built, the turbines soon become part of the landscape. • The experience of other wind farm developments suggests no effect on tourism. • The site cannot be seen from the major tourist areas. • It is good for this land to be used for something worthwhile.

4.6 All letters of representation are available for inspection via the Council’s eplanning portal which can be accessed through the internet (www.highland.gov.uk). Access to computers for public use is available via a variety of Council offices.

5.0 CONSULTATIONS

5.1 Kiltarlity Community Council objects to this development on the following grounds: -

• Impact on community and residential amenity; • Traffic and Road Access – particularly on the A833 and through Beauly. • Tourism Impact – Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle. • Visual Impact – on the landforms, landscape character and scattered rural community of Glen Convinth • Slavonian Grebe – a protected species.

5.2 Inverness West CC, the adjacent Community Council immediately to the east / south of the development, objects to this development. Their detailed response highlights the following key concerns: -

• It is contrary to the Development Plan Policies of the Highland Council including its Renewable Energy Strategy and the emerging Supplementary Guidance. • It is out of scale as seen on the Druim Ba ridge and as a “key-hole” development within a small forest. • It will have a adverse impact on local recreational activities and facilities including the Great Glen Way, The Abriachan Forest Trust and local tourist businesses. • It will have detrimental impact on individual (residential) and community amenity. • It could pose a considerable risk to the natural and cultural heritage interests of the area. • Its impact on the area will be substantial and adverse.

5.3 Glenurquhart CC, the adjacent Community Council immediately to the west of the development, objects to this development. The Council’s detailed response highlights key concerns in the following areas: -

• Size, scale, location & visual impact; • Environment / wild life; • Community benefit / economic impact;

5.4 Beauly CC, the nearby Community Council, supports the development.

5.5 Kilmorack CC, the nearby Community Council, objects to the development. It is seen as excessive for the area on a rural landscape of outstanding natural beauty. It will present as a scar on the landscape for many communities from many miles away. The proliferation of wind farm developments will have a harmful effect on tourism. The development is too close to a number of rural houses, with concerns over noise impact and flicker.

5.6 Council’s Historic Environment Team (Archeaology) has no objection to the development but recognises its potential impact upon an archeologically sensitive landscape with well preserved remains of settlement, burial and ritual activity. Mitigation is requested both at the construction stage to record archaeological remains impact upon by development and post construction to open up access to this resource for further investigations and improved public access for interpretation / education / visitor opportunities to compensate for the visual impact on this archaeological resource.

5.7 TEC Services (Environmental Health) has no objections to the development. However operational noise of the wind farm could affect nearby noise sensitive properties. The applicant must demonstrate from the chosen turbine compliance with Council standards. Additionally, “shadow flicker” has been identified as a potential impact that may affect several properties due to their proximity of the turbines if development proceeds with the proposed maximum size turbines. TECS request conditions in line with Council standards in respect of any approval to ensure the Council can protect the amenity of adjacent developments / housing.

5.8 TEC Services (Roads) has no objections to the development. However there is risk of damage to Council roads, particularly the A833, from the movement of large and heavy construction vehicles. Structural failure of carriageway construction is a possibility, as is verge and carriageway edge damage due to vehicle overrun. A condition of development must ensure a Construction Traffic Management Plan be established before the movement of any construction traffic. This plan will require a legal agreement securing a Road Bond to protect the interests of the Council.

5.9 Trunk Roads Network Management Division has no objection to the development following assessment of the expected impact on parts of the Trunk Road Network.

5.10 Scottish Water has no objections.

5.11 Scottish Natural Heritage has no objection to the development but recognise that the interaction and relationship of landscape, woodland and bird interests for this proposal is complex. It advises that there will be no adverse impact on designated sites, within 2km of the site. Recommendations are made in respect of mitigation on protected species in the locality. Micrositing of Turbine 1 would help avoid an area of deep peat. Further attention should be given to the adequacy of the proposals for establishment of compensatory woodlands to reflect the removal of existing woodland cover. SNH agrees with the conclusions of the supporting Environmental Statement (ES) that the proposal will not significantly affect the special landscape qualities of the Loch Ness area. However it does not consider that this proposal, as submitted, maintains a good standard of wind farm design. Whilst the siting and layout of the Druim Ba turbines do relate to the landform and surrounding landscape pattern, the size of the turbines do not reflect the scale and character of the immediate landscape features and will have significant impacts on landscapes to the north.

5.12 Scottish Environment Protection Agency has no objection to the development. Planning conditions are requested in any approval of this application as highlighted addressing ground water interests and pollution prevention.

5.13 Historic Scotland is content that any impacts on local heritage are not at such a level of significance to warrant an objection to the proposal.

5.14 Ministry of Defence has no objection to the proposal. Conditions should be applied to require some aviation lighting to key turbines and a requirement to notify aviation interests on construction start dates and details of turbines as built.

5.15 Civil Aviation Authority has no objection to the development. Request notification on construction start dates and details of turbines as built.

5.16 Highland and Islands Airport Ltd has no objection to the development.

5,17 NATS (En Route) PLC has no safeguarding objection to the development.

5.18 Office of Communication (OFCOM) has no objections to the development.

5.19 Forestry Commission Scotland has no objection provided a condition is attached to any consent to allow for compensatory planting of an area of woodland to provide at least the same public benefits as the 24ha of woodland being removed. The exact details of this can be subject to the production of a habitat management plan where the detail of compensatory planting and associated works can be agreed to the satisfaction of FCS.

5.20 Visit Scotland has no objection to the proposal. It highlights the importance of Scottish tourism to the economy, and of Scotland’s landscape in attracting visitors to Scotland, is crucial to future economic growth. It recommends that any potential detrimental impact — visually, environmentally and economically of the proposed development on tourism be identified and considered in full, including when taking decisions over turbine height and number.

5.21 Association of Scottish Fisheries Boards has no objections. The construction impacts of development will need to take account of impact on water quality and on migratory and non migratory fish species.

5.22 Beauly District Fishery Board (BDFB) and the Ness & Beauly Fisheries Trust (NBFT) do not object to the proposed development provided safeguards are made to ensure against the deterioration of water quality in local watercourses of the Moniack and the Beauly river systems. Regular sampling of the aquatic environment needs to be made a condition of any permission to develop the site, during and post construction, with regular liaison of key stakeholders with the developer to consider the implications arising from the collected data.

6.0 POLICY

6.1 The following development plan policies are relevant to the assessment of the proposals: -

Highland Council Structure Plan (March 2001)

6.2 Policy G2 Designed for Sustainability Policy G3 Impact Assessments Policy G4 Community Benefit Policy E1 Distributed Renewable Energy Developments Policy E2 Wind Energy Development Policy F1 Forestry Development Policy N1 Nature Conservation Policy L4 Landscape Character Policy Policy BC 1 Preservation of Archaeology Sites

Draft Highland Wide Local Development Plan (Sept 2010)

6.3 Policy 29 Sustainable Design, Policy 30 Design Quality and Place Making, Policy 53 Principle of Development in Woodland, Policy 55 Mineral Wastes, Policy 56 Peat and Soils, Policy 58 Natural, Built and Cultural Heritage, Policy 59 Protected Species, Policy 60 Other Important Species, Policy 61 Other Important Habitats, Policy 62 Landscape, Policy 64 Water Environment, Policy 68 Renewable Energy Development, Policy 73 Pollution.

6.4 Policy 68 is supportive of projects, particularly those that can contribute to meeting renewable energy targets and have can provide positive effects on the local and national economy provided that the location, siting and design of the development is not significantly detrimental to the following criteria: -

• natural, built and cultural heritage features; • species and habitats; • public health and safety; • visual impact, and impact on the landscape character of the Highlands (the design and location of the proposal should reflect the scale and character of the • landscape and seek to minimise landscape and visual impact, subject to any other considerations); • community amenity at sensitive locations including residential properties, work places and recognised visitor sites (in or outwith a settlement boundary); • the safety and amenity of any regularly occupied buildings and the grounds that they occupy- having regard to visual intrusion or the likely effect of noise generation and, in the case of wind energy proposals, ice throw in winter conditions, shadow flicker or shadow throw; • ground water, surface water (including water supply), aquatic ecosystems and fisheries; • the safe use of airport, defence or emergency service operations, including flight activity, navigation and surveillance systems and associated infrastructure, or on aircraft flight paths or MoD low-flying areas; • other communications installations or the quality of radio or TV reception; • the amenity of users of any Core Path or other established public access for walking, cycling or horse riding; • tourism, recreation and film industry interests; • land and water based traffic and transport interests.

Inverness Local Plan (March 2006)

6.5 Strategy – 5 themes including – Creating Prosperity. Background Policy 3. GP 1 Design Principles. GP 11 Traffic Management. GP 17 Loch Ness Corridor. GP 20 Forest Recreation. GP 21 Heritage Trails. GP 23 Habitats and Species.

National Planning Policy

6.6 Scottish Planning Policy (SPP) February 2010 contains policies relevant to this proposed development including: -

• Sustainable Economic Growth • Sustainable Development • Rural Development • Historic Environment • Landscape and Natural Heritage • Transport • Renewable Energy

6.7 Circulars also provide statements of the Scottish Government's policy. Statements of Scottish Government policy in the SPP, NPF and Circulars which should be taken into account in development management decisions.

Highland Renewable Energy Strategy (HRES) (adopted May 2006)

6.8 HRES is currently being reviewed to take account of Scottish Planning Policy (Feb 2010). Meanwhile it remains the approved Highland Council strategy on which wind energy proposals are assessed. Relevant policies include: -

Policy E7 presumes against a major onshore wind farm in this location. Policy N1 local content (jobs) of the works required to be secured as mitigation.

Draft Supplementary Guidance – Onshore Wind Energy (April 2011)

6.9 Scottish Planning Policy requires Planning Authorities to set out a spatial strategy to assist with the development of largescale (over 20MW) onshore wind farm. This is also expected to help larger projects (over 50MW) which are determined by Scottish Government. The strategy should help identify areas of significant protection from development, identify other constraints and policy criteria and ultimate identify broad areas of search. This work is informed by landscape assessment and issues of visual impact. The draft guidance currently prepared by the Council highlights the site of this application as falling within: -

• Type 1 area – significant protection from large scale development – to guard against cumulative erosion of the landscape qualities of the SLA, an important tourist route and cumulative limit.

7.0 PLANNING APPRAISAL

Determining Issues

7.1 The Scottish Government will address its assessment of this Section 36 application under the Electricity Act 1989. Should Ministers approve the development, it would carry with it deemed planning permission under Section 57(2) of the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997. Accordingly the Council in its assessment considers whether the application is in accordance with the Council’s Development Plan and then considered all other material considerations.

7.2 The determining issues are:

- Does proposal accord with the development plan? - If it does, are there compelling reasons for not approving the proposed development? - If it does not accord, are there any compelling material considerations for approving the proposed development?

Assessment

7.3 To address the determining issues, the Committee must consider the following:-

a) Development Plan b) National Policy c) Supplementary Guidance d) Roads and Traffic Impacts e) Water & Drainage. f) Natural Heritage g) Design, Landscape and Visual Impact h) Noise i) Shadow Flicker j) Cultural Heritage k) Tourism l) Peat m) Construction Impacts n) Other Material Considerations raised within representations.

Development Plan

Structure Plan (March 2001)

7.4 The Development Plan comprises the approved Highland Structure Plan and adopted Inverness Local Plan. The Structure Plan is supportive of on shore wind energy developments provided that their impacts are not shown to be significantly detrimental (Policy E1 and E2). Assessment of proposals must have regard for visual impact; noise; electro magnetic interference; roads bridges and traffic; aircraft flight-paths / MOD operations and cumulative effects. The Plan’s general policies include policy G2 which requires all developers to be assessed against a range of criteria for example “impact on individual and community residential amenity;” and “demonstrating sensitive siting and high quality design in keeping with local character, historic and natural environment and in making use of appropriate materials”. Developments which are judged to be significantly detrimental in terms of these criteria shall not accord with the Structure Plan.

Highland Wide Local Development Plan (Proposed Plan - 2010)

7.5 The policies of the Structure Plan are expected to be superceded by the Highland Wide Local Development Plan a draft version (the Proposed Plan) was out for public consultation during October / November 2010. The policies within the Proposed Plan are a material consideration in the determination of planning applications. Policy 68 of the draft plan is supportive of renewable energy projects, taking into account any mitigation measures, where it is satisfied that they are located, sited and designed such that they will not be significantly detrimental either individually or cumulatively with other developments having regard to any significant effects on criteria listed earlier in this report at para 6.4. The Plan also highlights the policies contained within the Highland Renewable Energy Strategy (HRES) and the on-shore Wind Energy Supplementary Guidance (WE-SG) for consideration.

Inverness Local Plan (March 2006)

7.6 The Local Plan advances a development strategy found on 5 key themes, one of which is entitled “Creating Prosperity” highlighting the benefit of utilising the areas natural resources such as wind energy production. However there are no specific policies specific to on shore wind energy developments contained in the Local Plan. Background Policy 3 applies to this application site. The Council presumes against development where there would be significant damage to heritage, amenity or public health. This general policy also relies upon the general and subject specific policies as highlighted within this report at para 6.5.

7.7 The relevant criteria noted in the Development Plan are assessed within the following section of this report. Provided there are no significant detrimental effects in terms of the criteria as highlighted within the Development Plan the application would comply with the key policies as set out in the Structure Plan (Policy E2), the emerging Highland Wide Local Development Plan (Policy 68) and Inverness Local Plan (Policy BP3).

Scottish Planning Policy (SPP) (February 2010)

7.8 The Scottish Government in responding to climate change and advancing sustainable development has emphasised in Scottish Planning Policy (SPP) and more recently in the “2020 Route-map for Renewable Energy in Scotland its commitment to a target of 100% of Scotland’s electricity demand to be generated from renewable resources by 2020. These targets are not a cap. There is a clear expectation that the energy targets will be met from a mix of technologies. Representations that argue against investment in renewable energy can only be given limited weight given the very positive stance set by the Scottish Government. With regard to government targets Highland has been successful in assisting the delivery of targets for renewable energy, including onshore wind farms projects, a factor which will increasingly require assessment of cumulative impact.

7.9 SPP advises that planning authorities should support the development of wind farms in locations where technology can operate efficiently and environmental and cumulative impacts can be satisfactorily addressed. Criteria for the assessment of applications are listed including landscape and visual impact; effects on heritage and historic environment; contribution to renewable energy targets; effect on the local and national economy and tourism and recreation interests; benefits and disbenefits to communities; aviation and telecommunications; noise and shadow flicker; and cumulative impact. These elements are examined within this report.

7.10 When considering cumulative impact the factors for planning authorities to consider should be set out in the development plan or supplementary guidance. Development Plans are expected to have a spatial framework for onshore wind farms over 20MW drawn from the identification of areas requiring significant protection, areas with potential constraints against identified criteria and areas of search where appropriate proposals are likely to be supported, again subject to identified criteria.

Highland Renewable Energy Strategy (HRES) (May 2006)

7.11 Highland Renewable Energy Strategy (HRES) is under review following the more recent publication of the revised SPP 6 and subsequently Scottish Planning Policy (SPP) as noted above. The sequential approach taken by HRES is in conflict with approach required by Scottish Government. This limits the weight that can be given to the policies within the adopted strategy. The Highland Wind Farm Activity Map (updated May 2011) that in Highland there is an approved capacity of 1,015.3MW. It is considered that this is likely to rise to 1,500MW by the end of 2011.

7.12 HRES does not identify this site for a major onshore wind farm development. Indeed the proposal farm lies within an area where there is a “presumption against” major scale onshore wind development where a precautionary approach to development should be taken. However, the strategy is not intended to be a site specific planning tool, but a strategic tool for the siting of renewable energy developments in the Highlands. At this level the strategy cannot be prescriptive but it does nevertheless provide a starting point for the assessment of a major onshore wind farm proposal in this locality. Factors such as Annex 1 Species, Visibility from existing dwellings, the Great Glen Way (GGW) and Commercial Forestry are highlighted as constraints.

On-shore Wind Energy - Supplementary Guidance (WE-SG) (Draft April 2011)

7.13 This draft guidance sets out a spatial framework for large (20MW) on shore wind farms, consistent with the expectations of national policy. The guidance takes into account visual and landscape issues of wind farms, particularly cumulative impact. It is the latter factor that results in the site of this application falling within an area to be afforded Significant Protection from Large scale on-shore Wind Farm Development (Sub Area 1 Loch Ness). The proposed development is contrary to the draft guidance. The purpose for identifying the sub-area is to guard against cumulative erosion of the landscape qualities of the SLA (Loch Ness) and an important tourist route (A82(T) / Great Glen Way).

7.14 The reasons given for this sub area development constraint are: -

• To the south, the boundary is loosely defined by the change in character type which helps keep the clear distinction between different character types rather than blurring this by having wind farm development across the transition in character types. • To the north, the boundary is defined at the western end by the need to prevent large scale windfarm cluster from growing to point where it impinges upon views in the Great Glen, avoiding mirroring of windfarms from one side to other and to provide a respite gap. • The boundary at the eastern end of the north side shows the protection area extending northwards beyond Cannich and Beauly, to create a visual break between windfarms in the sub area. • There is high visual sensitivity from Routeways (The Macaulay Report). • There is high landscape character sensitivity in the immediate environs of Loch Ness and high/medium sensitivity extending towards Beauly and Cannich which is something of a gateway to the Glen Affric NSA (Macaulay).

Roads and Traffic Impacts

7.15 The application highlights preferred access routes and anticipated traffic volumes for the development. Turbine delivery (abnormal loads) is to originate from Invergordon using the Trunk Road Network to the Tore roundabout, thereafter via the local road network using the A832 (Tore to Muir of Ord), A862 to Beauly then the A833. The maximum traffic impact associated with the development is predicted to occur in month six of the construction period with an average of 60 HGV movements predicted per day, with a further 52 car or light van movements. No objections have been raised by the road authorities to the development but conditions and legal agreements are regarded as essential to manage the use of the local road network and secure appropriate mitigation as highlighted below.

7.16 The applicant has carried out a review of the access route by video survey from the Port facilities at Invergordon to the application site. A swept path assessment was also undertaken, together with a full structural assessment of the access route in consultation with the Council. A number of mitigation measures are been proposed along the preferred access route. Notwithstanding this initial assessment it is normal practice, before any abnormal loads traverse the access route that a trial run is undertaken in liaison with the Police and the respective roads authorities to demonstrate the minimum horizontal and vertical clearances needed to navigate the route. Following completion of the trial run, full details of all road improvement/mitigation measures needed to facilitate abnormal load movements and accommodate general construction traffic shall be agreed with Highland Council. These measures may include modifications to bridges and culverts, carriageway widening and / or edge strengthening, road safety improvements and traffic management.

7.17 Given the generally poor geometry and condition of the southern section of the A833 - between Blairmore and the A831 - all larger incoming and outgoing development traffic (OGV 1’s, OGV 2’s and buses) should be routed directly from and to the A862 via the northern section of the A833. For similar reasons, all vehicles associated with the development should be prohibited by condition and or legal agreement from using any of the minor public roads north and east of the site - except for the short section of road between accesses on the northeast boundary of the site see below.

7.18 There is a risk of damage to Council maintained roads, particularly the A833, from the movement of large and heavy construction vehicles. Structural failure of carriageway construction is a possibility, as is verge and carriageway edge damage due to vehicle overrun. No detailed discussions regarding mitigation measures on the local road network have yet taken place between the applicant and the Council. However, notwithstanding this and any further requirements that the Police and the Trunk Roads Authority may have, any permission granted must secure by condition a Construction Traffic Management Plan to manage the movement of any construction traffic and only after agreed mitigation works have been undertaken. To limit the movement of heavy vehicles on the local road network concrete required for the development should be produced on site, using materials won and processed within the site. Similarly, as far as possible, materials won and processed within the site should be utilised for internal road construction and ancillary works.

7.19 The roadside masonry retaining walls either side of the A833, between the A862 and Brockies Lodge, are relatively close to the carriageway and show signs of deterioration at several locations. The deterioration may be accelerated by construction traffic and the potential for impact damage will also increase. At certain locations on the east side of the public road forward visibility and general road safety could be enhanced by setting back sections of wall. It is recommended that before construction traffic commences the applicant, in consultation with relevant land owners, undertake detailed surveys to record the condition of the roadside walls and, were necessary, effect localised repairs to the walls.

7.20 There would be possible cumulative impact on the road network with other existing or approved developments, including wind farm developments, in the general area that should be considered in conjunction with the current application. The cumulative impact of Druim Ba construction traffic and traffic generated by the Beauly to Denny project, particularly through the village of Beauly, is an obvious case in point. It is recommended that a legal agreement is established in respect of the development proposed. The agreement under the Roads (Scotland) Act 1984 should secure a Road Bond or similar security to protect the interests of the Council, as roads authority.

7.21 There are road safety concerns regarding the access arrangements proposed for the site particularly the use of the existing access connecting to the A833 at the south end of the site. Visibility at this access and the public road is limited in a northerly direction and the condition and alignment of the public road at this locus are generally poor. Therefore, in the interests of safety, it is recommended that this access is employed for emergency purposes only. Limited use of the accesses connecting to the minor public road along the northeast boundary of the site can be permitted, subject to suitable upgrading of the accesses and the public road between them. The section of road between the accesses may be used to facilitate the turning of construction vehicles from within the site. However the use of the remainder of the road by construction vehicles must be prohibited. As a consequence of these constraints the internal road system may require to be modified, and additional turning facilities provided, to enable two-way vehicular movement within the site. The proposed new site access is considered acceptable.

Water and Drainage

7.22 The layout suggests that there will be no direct impacts on areas of wet woodland, flushes, mires or swamp. The applicant’s assessments which have been examined and commented upon by SEPA indicate where development encroaches upon areas of wetland. These are not expected to have significant impact. The layout seems to have avoided unnecessary watercourse crossings and existing tracks have been utilised as much as possible, reducing the need for the construction of new track. SEPA has advised that it would be content with 50m flexibility for turbine micro-siting or 100m in agreement with the appropriate authorities.

7.23 One private water supply, an artesian well at Blairmore, appears to be within 100m of the access roads and construction compound. Intrusive site investigations and a long term monitoring strategy for the well (and groundwater dependant terrestrial ecosystems) are proposed and these could be secured by condition. There also needs to recognition of the water quality issues highlighted within the consultation responses by the Fisheries Boards.

7.24 Waste water drainage in this locality is dependent upon private provisions. At the construction stage, however, sewage and waste water will be collected on site and will be tanker-ed from site at an appropriate frequency. Final arrangements for all waste water drainage together with the overall management of all other waste can be addressed in detailed through a Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) in collaboration with TECS and SEPA. This approach has already been anticipated by the applicant.

Natural Heritage

7.25 There are no designated sites within the proposed wind farm boundary. However North Inverness Lochs Special Protection Area (SPA) and Balnagrantach Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) both lie within 2km of the proposal. A factor to be assessed within the consideration of this application is the potential for impact on the North Inverness Lochs Special Protection Area (SPA) classified for its Slavonian grebes.

7.26 The supporting ES information on Slavonian Glebe contains an assessment which has been assessed by SNH. It was impressed by the level of effort and detail which had been undertaken on ornithological matters especially Slavonian Glebe. SNH recognised that there is connectivity between the site and the SPA. However, they acknowledge that the collision risk is low and will not result in the decline or loss of the population of grebes using the SPA. It also advises that there will be no adverse impacts on populations of other important bird species in the wider countryside as a result of this proposal.

7.27 In its representation RSPB does not object to this development provided that a Slavonian Grebe Conservation Plan is agreed by interested parties and made subject to a legally binding S75 Agreement. SNH suggest that this could be considered with the proposed Habitat Management Framework and although obviously positive the plan cannot be described as mitigation or compensation as defined by the European Commission. SNH is supportive in principle of measures which have been designed to address a decline in the numbers of Slavonian Grebes in Scotland (a decline which is independent of the wind farm proposal) and they would be keen to develop this framework further with the developers and other interested stakeholders. However, it should be considered as something separate from the wind farm proposal.

7.28 Moniack Gorge and Urquhart Bay Woods Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and SSSI are within 10km of the proposal and Glen Affric and Glen Strathfarrar National Scenic Areas (NSA) are within 35km. SNH does not consider that the proposal will have any adverse impacts on Moniack Gorge SAC / SSSI, Urquhart Bay Woods SAC / SSSI or the NSAs. With regard to other protected species, the ES has surveyed and addressed the interest locally of bats, water vole, pine martin, fish (brown trout / Atlantic salmon), wildcats, red squirrel, badgers, reptiles, terrestrial invertebrates and substantive valued habitats / flora ranging from woodlands, grasses and bogs. Whilst some of these investigations have highlighted that the proposal will have limited if any impact, there is a recognised need to address concerns for some of these species particularly otter, wildcat, red squirrels, pine martins and reptiles through appropriate mitigation and / or conditions particularly to secure pre construction surveys / construction management. These have largely been offered by the applicant, but consultations have highlighted specific requirements to be included as conditions within any decision to approve the proposal.

Design, Landscape and Visual Impact

7.29 The design as presented evolves from a number of key elements. Essentially the estate is an established holding, with significant areas of commercial woodland, set high in the landscape within Glen Convinth, with a good wind regime, relatively close to the grid network. The supporting ES advises that there were two objectives which have informed the design including: -

• visual containment from Loch Ness (SLA) to the south and Strathglass and Glen Affric (NSA’s) to the north west.

• Offsetting potential conflict with Slavonian Glebe.

7.30 The second objective noted above also combines with a consideration to minimise the loss of trees by promoting tree felling only around the turbine bases (“key- holing). This has lead to the promotion of unusually high turbine towers with a maximum hub height of 108m and maximum blade tip height of 149.5m. The eventual turbine procurement process may result in slightly smaller final dimensions although for reasons highlighted below turbines will maintain a minimum hub height of 100m. The applicant advises that the taller turbines provide for significant areas of clear air space above the tree tops. This creates an ecological buffer between the forestry canopy and rotor blades for the protection of birds and bats. There is also advantage that the turbines will access cleaner and stronger airflows. The ES recognises that in respect of tree clearance the minimum height from the ground that the turbines must not sweep is only 40m or 20m above the trees.

7.31 The turbines will require a slightly larger key-hole / tree clearance around each turbine base during construction, which then can be partly re-afforested during the operational stage. The criterion for key holing are twofold; the minimum hub height being 5-6 times the tree height (20m) and a clearance requirement between the lowest tip height and the ground being 1.5 x the rotor diameter, currently ranging between 82m - 100m, also with a caveat for clearance of trees from the turbine to the forest edge. By lifting the hub higher from the tree tops the clearance of trees to the forest edge can be avoided. A maximum area of 0.65ha forestry clearance per key hole is required. Compensatory tree plant is advanced, with each 1 hectare of forest removed being replaced by 1 hectare of native broadleaves.

7.32 A number of design iterations were worked through by the applicant taking into account the requirements for turbines and good wind energy design, local ground conditions / contours, buffers around watercourses, archaeology, local ecology especially ornithological interests, outlook and impact on the surrounding area, housing, tourist attractions, etc. This has seen a scheme emerge in this application of 23 turbines, in a compact arrangement within Druim Ba woodland. The retention of the existing woodland assists in reducing the wider impact of the floor of the development including the turbine bases, tracks, crane hard-standings, borrow pit, substation and control buildings, temporary construction areas. That said the proposed turbines would be of a size and scale in excess of any other on shore wind turbine in Highland, the largest approved turbine (tip height 125m / 90m rotors) being at Lochluichart. The turbines at Fairburn to the north are smaller being 100m to tip height.

7.33 Guidance such as SNH’s publication “Siting and Designing windfarms in the landscape” helps to inform applicants with their design iterations but also help in the assessment of projects. The assessment undertaken by the applicant is regarded as being consistent with good practice and is of a good standard. The findings of the assessment can generally be relied on, with no adverse comments on the methodology being raised by statutory consultees. However in one respect the ‘key holing’ of the turbines within the forest which has not been fully evaluated through the assessment process. Within distances of up to 5km certain ‘key holes’ will be apparent to some receptors including those on the Great Glen Way and from a small number of houses which overlook the site.

7.34 SNH has advised that “the proposed wind farm will appear to lie within a woodland block and the design and grouping of the turbines will appear well ordered”. However from the surrounding area, particularly the viewpoint presentations within the supporting ES it is difficult to gain an appreciation of the layout (order). The clustered grouping presents as a mixture of single turbines interspersed with overlapping turbines, which adds a degree of confusion, particularly as the turbines from local vantage points are seen above the skyline. Given the size of the proposed turbines SNH has also advised that “from the A862, VP7 (Beauly) and VP8 (Muir of Ord) the turbines will often lie on the skyline, appearing far nearer than they are in reality. This is a concern.

7.35 Within SNH’s guidance “Siting and Designing windfarms in the landscape” there are a number of factors highlighted for consideration when turbines are to be seen on the skyline. It is important that wind turbines possess a simple visual relationship to the feature (moorland and / or hills) avoiding variable height, spacing and overlapping of turbines and also visibility of blade tips intermittently breaking the skyline. Clearly much depends upon where the viewer stands, but consideration needs to be given where the development would be seen by most sensitive receptors, which in respect of this development is from the north (Ardendrain) and north east (Kiltarlity / Beauly). From these viewpoints the turbines are seen above the skyline. Whilst they present at a generally consistent height they do not present as a simple alignment, but in a more complex form, which creates the confusion noted by SNH.

7.36 Areas to be affected by the development have been highlighted from the Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) of the proposal. This has helped with the assessment, including cumulative impact, upon: -

• Designations around the site including the Cairngorms National Park, National Scenic Areas, Special Landscape Areas (SLA’s) / Formerly AGLV’s, Garden and Designed landscapes and Search areas for Wild Land. • Landscape Character • Principal visual receptors of the development including local houses / communities, tourists using facilities such as the Great Glen Way, Historic Monuments, Archaeological features, etc.

7.37 Given the distances (>15km) from the wind farm site the anticipated impact of the development upon most designated sites is correctly assessed as being not significant. It is the two designations of Strathfarrar NSA and Loch Ness SLA where the impact is greater. That said the expected impact on both the NSA and SLA are only considered to be slightly adverse given the respective factors of distance and topography. Despite the fact that the Loch Ness SLA lies close to the development site the development is not seen to create significant impact on the key views within the SLA nor the qualities for which the area has been identified. Loch Ness does not have World Heritage Site status although this remains an aspiration.

7.38 In landscape character terms the site falls wholly within an area recognised as Rocky Moorland Plateau With Woodland – which forms a significant part of the 15km study area surrounding the proposed development. There is no specific guidance for wind turbine development in this landscape character sub type. Guidance for the parent type – Rocky Moorland Plateau however states – “a wind farm will generally appear appropriate when it is sited in broad open spaces of this landscape, so that the turbines appear inferior in scale. Due to the variable landform, a single turbine or a small concentrated group of turbines will tend to appear more appropriate than a widely spread development, as the variable heights, slopes and spacing resulting from the latter tends to lead to visual confusion.”

7.39 The applicant’s assessment on landscape character recognises that locally (2-5km) the development (in the landscape area of the site and surroundings) will be “substantial adverse” and therefore “significant.” However with distance from the site and within the changing landscape character “Enclosed Farmland” to the north and north east the ES notes the impact of the development lessens. Given there are no wind farms within 15km distance of the site, where the direct impact of the development is assessed, there is only indirect impact on the landscape character types in this area from developments further to the north (Fairburn, Lochluichart and Corriemollie) and to the south (Farr, Dunmaglass and Corriegarth, Corriemony and Millennium). Worth noting is the development of the Beauly / Denny 400kv grid line (with large pylons averaged height 53 m) which will run west from Beauly, over 5km to the north of the site. The applicant’s overall conclusion is that “…impacts upon the landscape resource of the wider study area (35km) when taken into account are not considered to be significant.” If this conclusion is accepted the proposal would satisfy the test – seriously adverse / significantly detrimental – as set by the Council’s Development Plan. It is accepted that the impact of the development on the landscape character lessens with distance however significant adverse impact at the local level particularly within Glen Convinth is of concern.

7.40 SNH have commented that “the size of the proposed turbines is out of scale with the existing landscape features within the Rocky Moorland Plateau landscape and will have impacts out to the Farmed Strath landscapes beyond”. “It is the detail such as individual dwellings, field boundaries and individual trees that contribute to the human scale of this landscape. The turbines once introduced will dwarf all other elements changing the current eye hopping between these details to rest on the new and dominant focus of the turbines on the skyline”. “The wind farm would become a dominant element in this landscape and create a confusing sense of perspective - contrary to our guidance on siting and designing wind farms in the landscape”. This issue is raised by representations against the development.

7.41 Turning to the issue of visual impact, twenty five view points were identified to assess the expected impact of the development from a mixture of affected communities, local routes, tourist and other viewpoints. As would be expected receptors closest to the project (within 5km) would receive the most significant adverse impacts – (see Annex A – extract from ES highlighting receptors with Significant Adverse Impact). It is accepted that several receptors close to the development site from properties, viewpoints and roads will be particularly impacted including:-

• Achpopuli - south of site at 1.3km; • Cragganvallie – east of site at 1km / planning permission for house at 850m, • Drumcoy / Ardendrain – north of site at 2km, • Carn Na Leitire – hill top at 2km • Great Glen Way - south of site at 1.3km • A833 – south of Druim Ba at 1.5km.

7.42 The ES has assessed individual properties and groups of properties (178 locations) within the vicinity (15km radius) of the proposed development which might be more likely be impacted by the development. Most properties / groups of houses are orientated in a manner that would not overlook the proposed wind farm and most will see the development within a large panorama. However, as can be seen from Ardendrain (VP 5) some 13 houses will look directly onto the development at distances as close as 1.3 - 2km. In these locations the development has been assessed as having a significant adverse impact on individual properties, on account of the height / scale of the turbines and change to the visual baseline and a judgement needs to be made as to the acceptability of this impact. In all there are approximately 26 properties that lie to the north, east and south of the site that will be impacted to a substantial adverse degree and a further approximately 55 properties that live in reasonable proximity of the development that might experience a moderate adverse impact, therefore significant, during the operational phase. Approximately three times this number of properties will be impacted to significant degree during the temporary construction phase given the expected level of activity, traffic and noise.

7.43 The visual impact of the development will lessen with distance however the impact is moderate – substantial (adverse) lower in Glen Convinth at Kiltarlity, and moderate (adverse) impact at Abriachan, Kilmorack Cemetery, Beaufort Castle. Levels of impact moderate and above are considered in the ES to be significant recognising the sensitivity of the receptor (principally residents) and the anticipated magnitude of change to the view from these locations. In the more distant views from Beauly (9.5km) and Muir or Ord (13km) the visual impact is considered to be “slight – moderate” impact (and therefore not significant). The proposal would safeguard views from many other sensitive receptors in the area such as views along the A82 at Loch Ness, Drumnadrochit, glens including Glen Urquhart, Glen Affric, Strath Farrar and the communities of Inverness and North Kessock. The applicant’s ES concludes that the effect upon the study area as a whole is one that is not significantly adverse but recognises the potential significant adverse visual impact locally. Members will be taken on a site visit to gain an appreciation of the impact particularly as seen from Viewpoints 19 (Abriachan), 5 (Ardendrain), 6 (Kiltarlity) and 7 (Beauly).

7.44 With regard to cumulative impact, given that there are no operational wind farms within a 15km of the project, the impact will be limited (not significant). There is a wind farm at Fairburn to the north and Farr to the south at around 20km distance. Apart from at local hilltops, there are not many locations where the proposed development together with an existing or proposed wind farm would be seen from a single viewpoint, where the experience would be of viewing one wind farm close up whilst the other is more distant. The ZTV’s of surrounding wind farms to a distance of 50km do indicate that this site and area is already visually impacted by such projects, however given the distance involved the impact is not seen as being significant. Perhaps of more significance is the issue of sequential viewing. Walkers along the Great Glen Way for example will increasingly view a number of wind farm developments. This experience will increase when schemes, given recent decisions at Dunmaglass and Corriegarth, emerge. Whilst this sequential viewing will come and go with the weather perhaps reducing the experience of more distant projects, the Great Glen Way passes very close to this site, with turbines being viewed at just over 1km.

7.45 In addition, when road travellers’ journey south on the A9 from the Dornoch Firth, there is sequential visual impact from constructed and approved developments. The stretch of road from top of the Black Isle to the south of Inverness however is relatively free from the visual impacts of turbines (only seen at distance) and this creates a break in this sequential viewing of wind farms by travellers. Development of the proposed turbines at Druim Ba would break this perceived gap and therefore have an impact on the sequential experience along this busy transport corridor. Furthermore the valued tourist routes within the Inner Beauly Firth Area, giving access to Glen Affric, Strathfarrar and Strathconon have only limited viewing of operational or approved wind farm development, for example Fairburn. It is the absence of largescale development within this area which is emerging as an important factor within the Council’s emerging Supplementary Guidance. The guidance recognises that this area provides an opportunity for a visual break from wind turbines between those areas already developed and the major areas of search.

Noise

7.46 The ES has provided an assessment of the operational noise from the turbines at the nearest noise sensitive properties. The EIA has carried out the assessment against noise criteria recommended by the guidance “ETSU-R-97 Assessment and Rating of Noise from Wind Farms” (ETSU) and has used the upper noise limits suggested by this guidance as assessment criteria, namely 40dB(A) for daytime and 43dB(A) for night time. Both these criteria also recognise the possibility of existing background noise and that the development should not exceed the above criteria or background noise plus 5 dB(A) which ever is the higher. In order to protect the amenity of residents within the Highland Council area, however, the Council recommends noise limits for wind farms be taken from the lower day time limit recommended by the ETSU guidance, namely 35dB(A). Furthermore the Council also recommends that a lower night time limit of 38dB(A) is used in order to take into account the World health organisation (WHO) Community Noise Guidelines which were not published at time when ETSU was written.

7.47 The ES highlights that two properties The Pines at No 3 Cragganvallie and Craggan Lodge and also the single undeveloped house plot granted planning permission by Craggan Lodge would be affected with predicted noise levels above the lowest noise levels by a small amount – (1-2 dB(A)) and only at wind speeds of 6 &7 metres per second (m/s). Within a slightly wider area there are number of properties which lie close to the limits of the predicted noise levels. These have been identified as existing noise sensitive properties where it is important to understand background noise levels in event of any future assessment of actual noise levels, should the development be approved. It is not anticipated that noise levels from construction activity would be of concern.

7.48 Conditions based on the above provide noise limits in relation to the background noise levels. It is acknowledged within the ES that the background noise levels at monitoring station M11 the Glen Convinth cemetery, are raised due to the influence of noise from the burn. Due to the failure of the monitoring station M13, some properties represented by M11 are located some distance from the burn and as consequence this monitoring station may not provide a representative background noise level for these noise sensitive properties. Therefore for the avoidance of any doubt the Council would wish to take the view that the background level at M13 is taken to be 30 dB(A) at wind speeds up 7m/s. This would ensure that the maximum upper noise limits of 35 dB(A) and 38 dB(A) would apply at the associated noise sensitive properties. Given the recommendation in this report the Council has not asked the applicant to carry out additional background noise survey at these locations and would wish to reserve its position on this topic if the proposal is taken to public inquiry. Late representations from objectors to the development have raised further concerns over the validity of the assessment of noise. Investigations are ongoing on this matter.

Shadow Flicker

7.49 The ES advises that 4 existing properties and one current planning permission for a new house at Cragganvallie are located within 10 rotor diameters (1,000m) of the turbines and could be affected by shadow flicker. It is noted that all 4 existing properties are owned by the applicant, 3 of which are uninhabitable. Consequently, only the impact on property Blairmore House and the proposed new house at Cragganvallie have been considered. The assessment confirms that both the existing property and the proposed new property would exceed the suggested maximum levels for shadow flicker exposure. The applicant has advised that the screening from the existing trees and vegetation would provide adequate mitigation to ensure no impact is experienced by people in these properties. Retention of trees would be required as a condition of any approval. Reduced turbine blades would also offer mitigation.

Cultural Heritage

7.50 The ES has identified that there are numerous prehistoric settlement sites and other features in the general area on both sides of Glen Convinth and around the periphery of the site. Most of these have no visibility of the proposed turbines from their locations; analysis of the ZTV indicates that there would be theoretical visibility of turbine blade tips from 37 scheduled monuments, five category A, 48 category B and 37 category C(S) listed buildings and one Conservation Area.

7.51 Historic Scotland (HS) do not object to the development regarding their interests including scheduled monuments and their setting, category A listed buildings and their setting and gardens and designed landscapes included in the Inventory. Despite some public objections highlighting concerns with regard to impact on Urquhart Castle, the ZTV indicates that the turbines will not be visible and HS has acknowledged the impact will not be significant.

7.52 The assessment is light in terms of its assessment on A Listed buildings and their setting. Within the chapter on visual impact the ES does highlights that the development will have “moderate” (adverse) impact on Beaufort Castle. The impact albeit from a distance of 6.9km is regarded as significant. The castle will be partially screened by the woodland however the top storeys of the building would have views of the development. It is important to consider that this is not just a residential property surrounding the development site, but is a building of significant cultural / historic interest. A degree of judgement is therefore required on the acceptability of the development with regard to this impact.

7.53 Eighteen sites of cultural heritage interest have been identified within the Blairmore Estate and one on the southeast boundary. No significant direct impacts are predicted on any of the identified sites, although some of the surviving field banks would be directly affected where they are crossed by proposed access tracks and in three instances the siting of a wind turbine (T17, T21 and T22). In these cases, the final position of the wind turbines needs to be subject to micrositing in order to avoid impacts on cultural heritage. The possibility that additional, buried and unrecorded remains of archaeological interest survive across the Blairmore Estate is considered to be low negligible due to the presence of closely planted commercial forestry, prior to which the ground has been deep ploughed. Mitigation measures have been set out to preserve sites in situ where practicable and to offset the predicted direct impacts through an appropriate watching brief strategy to be agreed with the Council’s Historic Environment Team and other relevant stakeholders.

7.54 Three groups of receptors in the wider landscape are predicted to receive indirect adverse impacts on their settings arising from the presence of the wind farm judged to be of moderate significance. Due to the high quality of preservation of the archaeological resource in this area, and the relative ease in accessing the archaeological features, many of these sites are considered to be of high educational value, with many of the sites regularly visited by local people, historic environment professionals and specialist heritage tour groups.

7.55 The turbines will have a impact on the cultural resource and for most visitors to these well-preserved sites given that the turbines will be a highly visible and dominant feature in the landscape. There is a strong likelihood that the turbines would significantly reduce the amenity value and enjoyment currently experienced by visitors. By way of mitigation options to open up the archaeological resource within and around (2km) the application area through improved access and interpretation, way-marked trails, leaflets, all-abilities paths etc. should be investigated and advanced as part of the construction works of any approved scheme. The well preserved prehistoric landscape in the western part of the development area would seem to be a good candidate for this work, along with the post-medieval farm-steadings and field banks. If the development is approved this mitigation should developed with the applicant in consultation with the Council’s Historic Environment Team and other relevant stakeholders.

Tourism

7.56 The ES highlighted that Highland had 14,000 tourism-related jobs in 2007— 13.2% of all employment in the area. There were an estimated 2.33 million visitors to the area in 2009 and 10.55 million associated bed nights. Loch Ness is a major draw for visitors, and the Loch Ness Exhibition Centre (330,000 visitors) and Urquhart Castle (282,203 visitors), both in the Drumnadrochit area, were two of the three most highly visited attractions that made returns to VisitScotland’s Visitor Attraction Monitor in 2009. The various landscape and visual impact studies have shown that the Urquhart Castle and Drumnadrochit have no visibility of the project with some minor exceptions the tourist routes either side of Loch Ness have no visibility. A random survey by the applicant of local tourism business is highlighted indicating that there is little evidence of tangible adverse economic impact on tourism business in the vicinity of wind farm developments.

7.57 Representations against the development have also highlighted this matter, advising that the development is likely to have a significant adverse impact on local businesses. There are however supporters to the application including the Inverness Chambers of Commerce that recognise the Government’s increasing targets for renewable energy and the potential economic benefits of renewable energy projects. No objection has been presented by VisitScotland. No objections have been raised by the Mountaineering Council for Scotland who seek to reflect the views of hill walkers and climbers.

7.58 The Great Glen Way (GGW) is 126km long. This wind farm will be visible for route users for approximately 18km. Given that 84% of the route users travel south to north, it could be seen that the majority of route user will have sight of the turbines. The experience will include views from close by and in some sections from around 15km, perhaps more, with some sections where only the tips will be visible. In 2009, 33,476 customers used the GGW of which 18% did the whole route as a long distance walk or cycle. This equates to 6,025 route users who passed this site. Surveys of route users have only commenced in April 2011. Walkers have said they are interested in wind farms / renewables and want to know more about it. This therefore suggests interpretation of the wind farm on the GGW would offer valued mitigation to some. Conversely the adjacent land unit to the wind farm site, Abriachan Forest Trust, who offer recreational, amenity and educational services, conducted a member’s survey. 56% of those who returned the survey, 85% were against the Druim Ba Wind farm.

7.59 Under the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 the public has increased access to the countryside generally. This needs to be planned and managed during construction and also through operational phased of any consented scheme. Should the development be approved it would be important to attach a condition requiring a detailed plan of public access across the site (existing, during construction and during restoration) to be submitted to and agreed in writing by the Planning Authority.

Forestry

7.60 The site is currently under commercial forestry, dominated by Sitka Spruce with components of Larch and Scots Pine, planted in the 1970’s. As part of the wider woodland holdings previously felled restocking remains to be undertaken, a requirement which runs with the land. Although ground conditions in this area have poor soils (peaty gleys) the land is recognised as having significant potential for productive woodland within the Highland Forest and Woodland Strategy Policy Category A – areas suitable for all types of woodland scheme. The Forestry Commission have not objected to the proposal but request conditions for compensatory planting as required by Scottish Government Policy. This may require plantings beyond this application site, which then requires a separate forestry application.

7.61 Within this wind farm development it is proposed to maintain the existing forestry cover subject to restructuring from productive conifer to native woodland cover through the use of ‘key holes’. It is acknowledged that the ‘key holes’ are to be restricted in size (0.65ha per turbine) rather than larger clearings as seen elsewhere. This has a consequence for turbine height (150m). The ES makes it clear that if the turbine size was reduced that a larger forest area would require to be removed. The ES also makes reference that clear felling would have “a significant negative impact” given the wooded character of the surrounding landscape.

7.62 The Draft Supplementary Guidance – Trees, Woodland and Development as approved by the Council for consultation, has some status in relation to the consideration of development proposal. Under Section 4.2.1 of this draft guidance the issue of ‘key holing’ is highlighted. It states that while there may be scope to ‘keyhole’ turbines into existing woodland, this can lead to stability issues where a windfirm edge can not be achieved and often requires higher turbines which may have additional landscape implications.

7.63 The ES assessment recognises that the “forest is placed within an exposed location with little shelter.” The ES’s Forestry Management Plan (FMP) indicates a windthrow hazard class average of 4, but on the more exposed sites it is 5 (the top rating). It further indicates that there is evidence of wind-blow. This is evident on the more exposed sites of the existing forest holdings that have been thinned and adjacent to previously thinned sites. Clearly in relation to windthrow risk there is implication for ‘key holing’ and for future woodland restructuring.

Peat

7.64 The supporting ES has highlighted the design consideration given to soil, water and also peat considerations. Peat surveys were used to inform the potential design, with peat probing confirming initial survey work. This has lead to development being directed away from areas of deeper peat or where slope stability might have raised concerns. That said the development will continue to impact on area of peat, where mitigation is proposed through appropriate construction management. Any approval will require as a condition the preparation of a Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) to be approved by the Planning Authority in consultation with SEPA and SNH. There are no significant risks or concerns arising from the proposal impacting on an area of peat resource

7.65 It has been noted that a confidential habitat management framework has been advanced with SNH to assist with the ecological interest of this site and the wider area. This may include changes to the water environment to benefit wildlife interests. SNH has advised that this habitat management is not related to the wind farm. Notwithstanding the confidential nature of these works, it is important that the key physical elements of the habitat management works are made known to the appropriate parties in association with any CEMP to ensure there are no unintended consequences.

Construction

7.66 The potential impacts of the development through the construction phase have been set out within many chapters of the supporting ES, with key points such as traffic impact being highlighted earlier. The applicant has however given consideration to a number of construction elements of the proposal including the development of a borrow pit, with associated noise (also noted above), temporary construction site, etc.

7.67 SEPA have welcomed inclusion of the Site Environmental Management Plan and Construction Method Statement and consider that the other pollution prevention measures outlined in the ES are generally acceptable. Nevertheless they have requested any approval require the submission for approval prior to commencement of development of information addressing: -

• Pollution prevention issues. • A scheme of site specific buffer distances (generally 50m) which are determined by the sensitivity of the soil, terrain, vegetation and other site specific characteristics. • Employment of suitability qualified Ecological Clerk of Works, or equivalent. • Environmental auditing and monitoring during and before construction. • Mechanisms to ensure that construction will not take place during periods of high flow or high rainfall • Site specific statement outlining track construction including drainage and sediment management; and • Measures to minimise impacts on Groundwater Dependant Terrestrial Ecosystems.

7.68 The ES refers to and assesses the impacts of decommissioning in a number of places. Should the development be approved it is generally a requirement that a Decommissioning and Restoration Plan is requested. The Plan should be submitted at least two years prior to the end of the design life of the development and be based on the best practice current at the time of submission.

Other Material Considerations

7.69 During consideration of the proposal there was some discussion on its impact on the local radar services provided for Dalcross Airport. The detailed matters of concern were overcome and HIAL has not objected to the application. It is clear that the assessment of local telecom services has raised no significant issues however there is a standard practice to secure through a legal agreement a short-term bond to address adverse impacts that may emerge during construction and the initial year of operation.

7.70 In terms of the economic impact of the development, the project will deliver a number of short term jobs during the construction phase, which are valued by a number of local businesses. Figures of potentially 87 FTE jobs in Highland, direct and indirectly associated with the project, have been estimated through the construction phase. In the longer term job creation through the operational phase of is valuable but is only small scale in nature. Estimates of 4 FTE jobs in Highland associated with the project through the operational phase have been provided.

7.71 There are no other relevant material factors highlighted for consideration of this application by the committee.

8.0 CONCLUSION

8.1 The Scottish Government has given commitment to renewable energy and encourages Planning Authorities to support the development of wind farms where they can operate successfully and concerns can be satisfactorily addressed. The application presents that case. It has attracted a measure of public support (428 individuals) and other than Community Council’s no objections have been raised from statutory consultees, with only a number of agencies requesting certain matters be regulated by conditions.

8.2 The application has also attracted a number of objectors (330 individuals), many of whom live close to the proposed development site or within nearby communities. Four community councils have expressed their objection to the application, with only Beauly Community Council indicating support. Many of the objections are founded on a number of issues which are material planning considerations, recognising the current Development Plan policies of the Council, the visual impact of the development and particular concerns over the assessment and impact of turbine noise.

8.3 The scale of the turbines, the largest turbine submitted to date in Highland, is a concern. The turbine design has been justified on two grounds including an accepted potential risk to Slavonian Grebe whose nearby habitat, Inverness Lochs, is recognised as a Special Protection Area as well as the forestry argument to safeguard the existing commercial woodland. However the collision risk to the Slavonian Grebe is low and the ability of the existing woodland to successfully accommodate 23 key-holes carries risk of further forestry impact (e.g. wind-blow). Requests to reduce the turbine height conflict with the nature conservation interests but also might require the additional felling of the existing woodland, for which compensatory tree planting within and beyond the estate would be required.

8.4 The development would place turbines high in the local landscape and close to a number of residential properties, communities and a range of local features of interest including Abriachan Forest Trust, Beaufort Castle (A Listed) and several sites of archaeological interest. As highlighted in the assessment this requires a degree of judgement to be made as to the acceptability of the visual impact, which is significant (adverse) upon a number of nearby properties. Shadow flicker and noise have also highlighted more direct effects on a few properties close to the development site.

8.5 The single cluster layout of the turbines does not accord with Scottish Natural Heritage’s the design guidance. The fact that the large turbines, some overlapping, would be seen above the skyline, particularly from communities / locations to the north and north east, would distort the very natural perspective that viewers currently have of Glen Convinth and the surrounding landscape. The large turbines would introduce new dominant features within the uniform appearance of the Farmed Straths and Wooded Hills south and west of Beauly.

8.6 Turbines of this scale do not sit well given the spatial arguments evolving in the Council’s draft Supplementary Guidance for Onshore Wind Energy. The draft guidance seeks to safeguard the Loch Ness area as highlighted within the guidance from largescale wind farm development. There is a need for separation between the main areas of search, given the potential for largescale projects that prevail between Farr and Glen Tarff, south of Loch Ness, and to the east of Ben Wyvis. The value of this undeveloped area is also acknowledged in the sequential experience for travellers through the Inner Moray Firth Area particularly across the Black Isle including on sections of the A9, A835 and A832 roads.

8.7 The Council is supportive of renewable energy projects as set out in the approved Structure Plan, the adopted Inverness Local Plan and the draft Highland Wide Local Development Plan. Support for wind farm developments has contributed to the Government achieving its renewable energy targets. The Council is responding positively to the Scottish Government’s Renewable Energy agenda as set out in SPP highlighting the requirement to identify broad areas of search for largescale onshore Wind Energy Projects. As highlighted within para 7.11 above the Council is well placed to meet, indeed exceed, its medium term targets for installed capacity without accepting development that will have significant adverse visual impact.

8.8 Within the existing policies of the Development Plan, applications are supported provided that key criteria / impacts can be satisfactorily addressed. The test is that the impacts are not significantly detrimental. The applicant recognises that the application will impact significantly (adversely) on a number of nearby properties / locations but that overall across the wider study area (35km) the impact will not be significantly (adverse). It is considered that the significant local impacts of the proposed development should not be lightly disregarded despite the Government’s renewable energy targets. The Council is focused upon finding and supporting development which is considered appropriate. It is considered that there are potential areas for largescale on-shore wind energy projects within the Monadhliath Area and Highland as a whole where such development could take place without significant impact on individual properties and local communities.

Further Processes

9.1 Statutory consultees have highlighted possible planning conditions that might be attached to any consent. A final list of potential planning conditions has not been concluded given the recommendation contained in this report. There remain concerns in respect of the potential impact of turbine noise and it is recommended that the Council reserves its position on this matter. Similarly the potential requirement for a legal agreement particularly in relation to the Council’s road network remains to be developed. Finally the position on key-holing within the forest is dependent upon final turbine selection and detailed woodland management techniques.

9.2 This application will be determined by Scottish Ministers. Should the Council object to the development the Scottish Government requires to hold a public Local Inquiry prior to determining the application.

9.3 In relation to Structure Plan Policy G4 Community Benefit the applicant has indicated support for the policy and discussions on these matters are progressing in parallel to but separate to the Section 36 application process.

RECOMMENDATION

That the Council objects to the Section 36 application to develop a 23 turbine wind farm development at Druim Ba for the following reasons: -

1. The development conflicts with policies E2 and G2 of the approved Highland Structure Plan and policy 68 of the draft Highland Wide Local Development Plan as its size and massing would have a significantly detrimental visual impact on properties / communities immediately adjacent to the site (north, east and south).

2. The development conflicts with the Loch Ness (1) sub area identified within the Draft Supplementary Guidance: Onshore Wind Energy, April 2011. This policy seeks to prevent large scale windfarm cluster from growing to a point where it impinges upon views in the Great Glen; avoiding mirroring of windfarms from one side to other and to provide a respite gap / a protection area extending northwards from the Great Glen to beyond Cannich and Beauly to create a visual break from largescale windfarm development.

Signature:

Name / Designation: Malcolm MacLeod, Head of Planning and Building Standards

Author: Ken McCorquodale / Principal Planner - (01463 702256)

Background Papers: Eplanning Casefile: - 11/00955/S36

Annex A

Extract from ES - Table 8.3: Summary of Significant Visual Impacts RECEPTORS CONSTRUCTION OPERATION Receptors Construction Operation

i Significant Adverse Impact Substantial Moderate – Substantial Moderate Substantial Moderate – Substantial Moderate Great Glen Way (Viewpoint 1) Glen √ √ way (Viewpoint 1 Carn na Leitire (Viewpoint 2) √ √

A833 south of .Druim Ba √ √ (Viewpoint 3)

A833 north of .Druim Ba √ √

Houses at Ardendrain √ √ (Viewpoint 5)

E. End Kiltarlity √ √ (Viewpoint 6)

Upper Abriachan √ √ (Viewpoint 19)

A862 between Muir of Ord √ and Beauly

Kilmorack Cemetery and three √ √ elevated residential receptors above Kilmorack Church.

Houses Hughton to Fanellan √ √ Ridge

Beaufort Castle (Building) √ √

House at Kinerras on Ridge √ √

Houses Boblainy to Clunevackie √ √ Ridge

Fanblair, Farm, Glen Convinth √ √

White House, Drumcroy and √ √ Ardblair, Glen Convinth

House, Upper Drumbuie √ √

Houses, Teavarran; Caiplich √ √ Near Druim Ba

Houses, Achpopuli; √ √ Cragganvallie, nr. Druim Ba

Annex B – Public Representations

1. LIST OF OBJECTORS FOR

LIST OF REPRESENTATIONS FOR Construction and operation of a wind farm, comprising 23 turbines AT DRUIM BA FOREST, BLAIRMORE ESTATE, KILTARLITY, 11/00955/S36

OBJECTORS

1. Mr Andrew Thomson, Wester Eskadale East, Kiltarlity, Beauly, Inverness Shire, IV4 7JR, 2. Leslie And Mhairi Callander, Broomfield, Dularich, Kiltarlity, By Beauly, Inverness-shire, IV4 7HT, 3. Heather A Kirk, Oor Hoose, Ruifor, Kiltarlity, Beauly, IV4 7HT, 4. Heather Hedderwick, 3 Ruisaurie, Beauly, Inverness-shire, IV4 7AJ, 5. Mrs Jacqueline Paterson, Cuilidh , Foxhole, Kiltarlity, BEAULY, Inverness-shire, IV4 7HT, 6. Mr RJ Thomson & Mrs SA Thomson, Tigh Mhor, Fassock, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HT, 7. J Farquharson, Camaultmuir, Kiltarlity, IV4 7JH, 8. Andrew, Margaret A & Thomas MacKenzie, 1 Cragganvallie, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HT, 9. Jill & Andrew Macadam & Trevett, Leetown, Caiplich, Inverness-shire, 10. Hon Kim I M Fraser, Lovat Estates, Lovat Estates Offices, Beauly, Inverness-shire, IV4 7DA, 11. James Campbell, Abernethy School Of Adventure Leadership, Ardgour, Fort William, PH33 7AD, 12. Mr G And Mrs L M Goode, Tigh Grianach, Abriachan, Inverness, IV3 8LB, , 13. John H Greag, The Scottish Government's Energy Consents Unit, 4th Floor, 5 Atlantic Quay, 150 Broomview, Glasgow, G2 8LU, 14. Shauna Jennens, The Corris, Foxhole, Kiltarlity, Inverness-shire, IV4 7HT, 15. Mark Robbins And Kevin Moore, Cnocbreac, Abriachan, Inverness, IV3 8LB, , 16. John, Pauline And Erik Trelfer, Coille Na Cro, Glen Urquhart, Inverness, IV63 6TH, 17. Lucinda Spicer, Convinth Steading, Kiltarlity, Beauly, IV4 7HT, , 18. Affleck D & Una Urquhart, 4 Rosebrae Crescent, Elgin, Moray, IV30 6AS, 19. Dr C W Lang, Tighbea , Camault Muir, Kiltarlity, IV4 7JH, 20. Chris Lea, 2 Riverside Place, Alness, IV17 0QF, 21. Donald & Margaret Bone, 8 Teavarran, Kiltarlity, Beauly, IV4 7HT, 22. Dr J Scarborough, Tigh Bea, Camault Muir, Kiltarlity, IV4 7JH, 23. G A Farquhar, Marnoch, 23 Lesmurdie Road, Elgin, IV30 4HP, 24. Joe & Barbara Merson, 7 Cullen Street, Portsoy, Banff, AB48 2PJ, 25. Mr T Sutherland, 67 Wards Road, Elgin, Moray, IV30 1TE, 26. Mrs W J & J Morrison, 4 Land Street, Elgin, IV30 6BL, 27. Thelma Sutherland, 67 Wards Road, Elgin, Moray, IV30 1TE, 28. Edward & Mrs P J Dinsdale Young, Glenconvinth House, Foxhole, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HT, 29. Alasdair D Stewart, Tigh Darroch, Belladrum, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HR, 30. Audrey Ferguson, 22 Riverside Road, Glasgow, G43 2EF, 31. Carola Smith, 7 Fleurs Drive, Elgin, Moray, IV30 1SS, 32. Edward Murdoch, 19 Bay Street, Fairlie, Largs, KA29 0AL, 33. Iain Fraser, Knockchollie, 2 Kinerras, Kiltarlity, IV4 7JL, 34. Irene McDowell, 4 Fleurs Place, Elgin, Moray, IV30 1ST, 35. Jean Sanders, St Patricks House, St Patricks Road, Lanark, ML11 9EH, 36. Mr Michael Spencer-Nairn, Struy Lodge, Struy, Beauly, Inverness-Shire, IV4 7JT, 37. David & Veronica Tervet, Grenville, Glaichbea, Kiltarlity, Beauly, IV4 7HR, 38. Donna MacRae, Craig Cottage, Crask Of Aigas, By Beauly, IV4 7AD, , 39. Glyn Lloyd, , 40. Jenny Nicholls & Roland Spencer-Jones, , 41. Lynn Birch, Reindoul, Abriachan, Inverness, IV3 8LE, , 42. John Murray, , 43. Jane Strang, , 44. Rory Strang, , 45. E Sutherland & W Orrock, Stroma, 2 Cragganvallie, Kiltarlity, Beauly, IV4 7HT, , 46. Mary M Joluiston, 0/1, 90 Marlborough Avenue, Glasgow, G11 7BJ, 47. Mags Joseph, 26 Coronation Road, Peterculter, Aberdeen, AB14 0RP, 48. Norma Strachan, 8 Fleurs Drive, Elgin, Moray, IV30 1SS, 49. Sally Hotson, Tigh Na Mara, Findhorn Road, Forres, IV36 3TR, 50. Vera Tweedy, 8 Moray Gardens, Forres, IV36 1DT, 51. Cal, Gail, Steven, Tyler MacKenzie, 3 Cragganvallie, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HT, 52. Tom Gallacher Chris Shone, 3 Balchraggan, Abriachan, IV3 8LD, 53. Gwen France, 18 Graham Street, Wishaw, ML2 8AF, 54. Maureen Stuchbury, 20 Norfolk Road, Aberdeen, AB10 6JR, 55. Mrs Floris Greenlaw, Knockchoille, Kinerras, Kiltarlity, Beauly, IV4 7JL, 56. Irene, Mrs Margherita & Owen MacPherson & David Michie, The Willows, 1 Ardendrain, Kiltarlity, Beauly, IV4 7HS, , 57. Kevin MacGillivray, Ben Na Gall, 8 Ardendrain, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HS, 58. Susan Campbell, , 59. John & Mary Graham, Cluanie Farmhouse, Teanassie, By Beauly, IV4 7AE, 60. Ethan Ewen, C/o The Whins, Ardendrain, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HS, 61. Tony Davidson, Gallery Director, Kilmorack Gallery, By Beauly, Inverness-shire, IV4 7AL, 62. Mrs S K Page, Claddoch, Garfocharm, 63. Director Robert Jaques, RSE Environment Ltd, Ardoch Cottage, Abriachan, Inverness-shire, IV3 8LE, 64. Ms Deborah Waldron, Garden Flat, Reelig Estate, Nr Kirkhill, Inverness, IV5 7PR, 65. Mr Paul Crowe, 60 Old Edinburgh Road, Inverness, IV2 3PG, 66. Mr Mark Williams, White House, Ardblair, Inverness-Shire, IV4 7HT, 67. Mrs Frances Baxter, Heath Cottage, Foxhole, Kiltarlity, Beauly, Inverness-Shire, IV4 7HT, 68. Shenan Davis-Williams, White House, Ardblair, Inverness-Shire, IV4 7HT, 69. J Chapman, Braeside, Ardendram, Kiltarlity, Beauly, IV4 7HS, 70. Ms C Hill, Foxhole Stables, Dularich, Glenconvinth, Kiltarlity, Beauly, IV4 7HT, 71. Ms Jane Nair, Corries Brae, Foxhole, Kiltarlity, Beauly, IV4 7HT, , 72. Mr Jonathan Wotherspoon, Teanacoil, Kiltarlity, Inverness-Shire, IV4 7JJ, 73. Barbara And Derrick MacDonald, 27 Cotton Street, Balfron, Glasgow, G63 0PE, 74. Alan & Lorna Jamieson, 1 Ardendrain, Kiltarlity, Beauly, IV4 7HS, , 75. William McDermott, , 76. Duncan MacMillan, , 77. Ben & Valerie Southern, , 78. Russ Mills, 3 Bakerlea, Monkland, Herefordshire, HR6 9DB, 79. Sue Morris & Family, Breakachy, Beauly, IV4 7AE, 80. Jackie West, , 81. Gregor Matheson, , 82. James McComas, Rose Cottage, Milton, Drumnadrochit, IV63 6UA, 83. Helen Steen, Neuhausstrasse 26 B, 61440 Oberursel, Germany, , 84. Joe Gibbs, Phoineas House, Belladrum Estate, By Beauly, Inverness-shire, IV4 7BA, 85. Neil Watson, Stotfield, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HW, 86. Alexandra Straker-Nesbit, , 87. Cambeuil Thompson, Taighe Na Greine, 2 Ardendrain, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HS, 88. Lorna Campbell, Copperfields, 11 Ardendrain, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HS, 89. Neil & Roslind MacNaughton, Balvaird Farm Cottages, Balvaird, Muir Of Ord, IV6 7XP, 90. Jeff & Maureen Hanson, 4 Allarburn Park, Kiltarlity, Beauly, IV4 7HD, , 91. Vicky MacIntyre, East Tomachoin, Abriachan, Inverness, IV3 8LB, 92. John & Audrey Breckenridge, Venachar, Ord Road, Muir Of Ord, IV6 7XL, , 93. Keith Mycock, 16 Holroyd Road, Kirkcudbright, DG6 4HR, 94. Jo Hawco, , 95. George Hawco, Dallauruach, Abriachan, Inverness, IV3 8LB, , 96. Catherine Neill, Inchberry Brook, Lentran, Inverness, IV3 8RJ, , 97. W G R Thomson, , 98. Gail & Chris Surtees, 24 Camault Muir, Kiltarlity, IV4 7JH, 99. Vreni Hafliger, , 100. Hon. Kim I M Fraser, Lovat Estates, Lovat Estate Office, Beauly, IV4 7DA, 101. Linda Thomson, Kellydown, Glaickbea, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HR, 102. Joe Gibbs, , 103. Katharine Stewart, Abbeyfield, 34 Crown Drive, Inverness, IV2 3QG, 104. Denise Davis, , 105. Tony Davidson, , 106. Honey Davis-Wilkinson, The White House, Ardblair, Inverness-shire, IV4 7HT, 107. Robert & Judith Livingstone, , 108. James & Miriam Campbell & Catriona Fraser, Tigh Grianach, 24 Viewfield Avenue, Beauly, IV4 7BW, , 109. Terry & Rita Butcher, Rivoulich Lodge, Achpopuli, Abriachan, Inverness, IV3 8LB, , 110. Hector Douglas, Marchdyke, Kiltarlity, Beauly, IV4 7HW, , 111. Mairi Sandford, Roselea, Glaichbea, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HR, 112. Christine Matheson, , 113. J R G Menzies, Temple Pier West, Drumnadrochit, IV63 6XR, 114. S N Byford, Chair Kilmorack Community Council, C/o 2 Broallan, Kilmorack, Beauly, IV4 7AH, 115. Robbie Sheriffs, Secretary Kiltarlity Community Council, Brockies Lodge Hotel, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HW, , 116. Jim Barr, Chairman Abriachan Forest Trust, Tyeantore, Abriachan, Inverness, IV3 8LD, 117. Pam Lucas, Chairperson Glen Urquhart Community Council, Incheachart Triangle, Incheachart, Glen Urquhart, Inverness-shire, IV63 6TN, 118. Sally Moore, Craggiemore Farmhouse, Daviot, Inverness, IV2 5XQ, , 119. Michael Keates, West Badarach, Strathkyle, Ardgay, IV24 3DP, 120. Fraser MacLean, Craigievar, Woodside Of Culloden, Westhill, Inverness, IV2 5BP, , 121. Alexander Lyall, 8 Glebe Terrace, Alloa, FK10 1DL, 122. Julie Paton, Birchcroft, Ruisaurie, By Beauly, IV4 7AJ, 123. Mark Wiper, Cnocvann, 6 Farley, Kilmorack, By Beauly, IV4 7AF, 124. Hugh Tennant, Cnocvann, 6 Farley, Kilmorack, Beauly, IV4 7AF, 125. Roddy MacDonald, Mor Carraig, 4 Balchraggan, Abriachan, IV3 8LD, 126. Gordon & Ann Fraser, Seabhac House, Megstone, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HW, 127. Teresa MacDonald, Mor Carraig, 4 Balchraggan, Abriachan, IV3 8LD, 128. Faye MacDonald, Adhar Mor, Balchraggan, Abriachan, IV3 8LD, 129. Neil Paterson, Cuilidh, Foxhold, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HT, 130. Ann Gloag, Beaufort Castle, Beauly, IV4 7BB, 131. Mr & Mrs N & L Ward, Darach Brae, Breakachy, Beauly, IV4 7AE, , 132. R C Chapman, Braeside, Ardendrain, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HS, 133. Professor John R G & Sandra Turner, Fairieburn, Reelig, Kirkhill, IV5 7PR, 134. RSPB Scotland, , , 135. Ernest Smart, Convinth Steading, Kiltarlity, Beauly, IV4 7HT, , 136. Christopher And Elizabeth Surtees, 24 Camault Muir, Kiltarlity, Inverness, IV4 7JH, 137. Warwick Lister-Kaye, Aigas Field Centre, Beauly, IV4 7AD, 138. Andrew McMillan, Cragganvallie, Abriachan, Inverness, IV3 8LB, 139. Kirstie Cohen, Culour Breakachy, By Beauly, IV4 7AE, 140. C J Williams, 108 Athelstan Road, Bitterne, Southampton, SO19 4DF, 141. Mrs J Toulmin-Rothe, Hillview, Knockfin, Tomich, Strathglass, Beauly, IV4 7LY, 142. Mr J E Crombie, Cruive Cottage, Kiltarlity, IV4 7JG, 143. Drium Ba Say No Campaign Group, Per Owner/occupiers & Others, White House, Ardblair, IV4 7HT, 144. Neil Macleod, , 145. John W Campbell, , 146. Vicky MacIntyre, , 147. Richmond Lusher, South Teavarran, Foxhole, Kiltarlity, Beauly, IV4 7HT, 148. Helen & Neil MacLeod, 3 Fanellan, Kiltarlity, IV4 7JP, 149. Danielle Hunt, Ealantas, Belladrum, Beauly, IV4 7BA, 150. George Herraghty, Lothlorien, Lhanbryde, Moray, IV30 3LD, 151. Joanne Mair And Gemma & R Hamil, 29 Hillhouse Street, Glasgow, G21 4UT, 152. Brian Thompson, 2 Ardendrain, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HS, 153. Simon Grey, Rose Cottage, Belladrum, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HP, 154. Jean Lindsay, Achabuie, Abriachan, Inverness, IV3 8LE, 155. Gareth Halliday, Toravaig, Loaneckheim, Kiltarlity, IV4 7JQ, 156. S W & J A Goodey, Allt Na Criche, 11 Ardendrain, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HS, 157. Gavin, Julie & Elenor Robertson, Easter Altourie, Abriachan, Inverness, IV3 8LB, , 158. Melanie Kan, Advent Cottage, 4 Hillhead, Chttlehampton, Umberleigh, North Devon, EX37 9RG, 159. V MacKenzie, 10 Ardendrain Croft, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HS, 160. Kim Terry, Laigh Letterpin Bungalow, Pinmore, Girvan, KA26 0HX, 161. Clare Ashley, Wester Eskadale East, Kiltarlity, IV4 7JR, 162. Marion Orr, Balgair, Belladrum, Beauly , IV4 7BA, 163. A Marsden, C/o The Whins, Ardendrain, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HS, 164. Joseph Duncan, C/o The Whins, Ardendrain, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HS, 165. Neil Brotherstone, C/o The Whins, Ardendrain, Kiltarlity, 166. Theresia Brotherstone, C/o The Whins, Ardendrain, By Beauly, IV4 7HS, 167. Pamela MacDonald, C/o The Whins, Ardendrain, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HS, 168. Cherie Duncan, C/o The Whins, Ardendrain, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HS, 169. Ms Pamela Matheson, 2 Ardendrain, By Beauly, Inverness-shire, IV4 7HS, 170. Fraser Ewen, C/o The Whins, Ardendrain, By Beauly, IV4 7HS, 171. Rhianna Ewen, C/o The Whins, Ardendrain, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HS, 172. Katie Ewen, C/o The Whins, Ardendrain, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HS, 173. L Ewen, C/o The Whins, Ardendrain, By Beauly, IV4 7HS, 174. Roger Ewen, The Whins, Ardendrain, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HS, 175. J Ewen, C/o The Whins, Ardendrain, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HS, 176. Alistair Ewen, The Whins, Ardendrain, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HS, 177. Gordon Ewen, 2 Ardendrain, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HS, 178. Dean & Laura Holland, 24 MacKenzie Place, Maryburgh, IV7 8DY, 179. Mr Peter Dunn, Glencairn, 21 Ruisaurie, Nr Beauly, Inverness-Shire, IV4 7EY, 180. Mr Neil Watson, Stotfield, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HW, 181. Mr Alastair Croall, Woodlands, Boblainy, By Kiltarlity, Beauly, IV4 7HX, 182. Mary MacLeod, Taighe Na Greine, 2 Ardendrain, Kiltarlity, Inverness, IV4 7HS, 183. Mr VP & Mrs E Ramsden, Broomhill, Camault Muir, Kiltarlity , Beauly, IV4 7JH, 184. Alistair Galloway, Brackenfield, Belladrum, By Beauly, Inverness-Shire , IV4 7BA, 185. John Murray, , 186. Marco Baglioni, , 187. D W W Torrance, Allt Abhruaich, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HX, 188. Jackie West, 1 Bignold Place, Achnasheen, IV22 2EG, , 189. Bob & Margie Hemingway, 25 Culburnie, Kiltarlity, IV4 7JJ, 190. Catriona Dingwall, , 191. Urs Gasser, Boxer's Croft, Abriachan, IV3 8LE, 192. Sita Sidle, , 193. George Watson For Residents Against Turbines (Scotland), , 194. Colin & Fiona Graham, Mackeanston House, Doune, Stirling, FK16 6AX, 195. Anne Grant, Cnocvann, 6 Farley, Kilmorack, By Beauly , IV4 7AF, , 196. Hugh Tennant, Cnocvann, 6 Farley, Kilmorack, By Beauly, IV4 7AF, 197. Alison Chapman, Organic Farmer, Scroggie Hall, Balmaclellan, DG7 3QH, 198. Nicola Vesty, The Old School House, Bunloit, Drumnadrochit, IV63 6XG, 199. David & Helena Somerville, Balchraggan Studio, Abriachan, IV3 8LB, 200. Elena Dondiego, Dorflpatz 3, CH-8913 Ottenbach, Switzerland, , 201. Craig Lloyd, Dalshian, Glaickbea, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HR, 202. Brenda Herrick, Harbour Road, Castletown, Thurso, KW14 8TG, 203. Margaret Lloyd, Dalshian, Glaickbea, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HR, 204. Jack Hesling, Old Schoolhouse, Abriachan, Inverness, IV3 8LB, , 205. Dorothy Waterworth, Greenhill, Ringford, Castle Douglas, DG7 2AS, 206. Stuart & Clare Caldwell, Cruinassie, Breakachy, Beauly, IV4 7AE, , 207. John MacKenzie, Ardblair, Glenconvinth, Kiltarlity, Beauly, IV4 7HT, , 208. Ron McLaughlin, Culour Of Breakachy, Beauly, IV4 7AE, 209. Steve Byford, , 210. Beryl Agarwal, 73 Windsor Road, Barnstaple, Devon, , 211. Janice Mair & Angus Farquhar, The Steading, East Mains Of Fairburn, Muir Of Ord, IV6 7UT, , 212. Jennie Austin, West Tomachoin, Abriachan, Inverness, IV3 8LB, , 213. Rae Leigh, Kirkbride Cottage, Gelston, Castle Douglas, DG7 1SU, 214. T J & A A MacRae, Carsaig, Dularich, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HT, , 215. Paul And Allison McAllister, Fairieburn, Reelig, Kirkhill, IV5 7PR, 216. Hector Douglas, Marchdyke, Camault Muir, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HW, 217. Clare MacDonald, Mor Carraig, 4 Balchraggan, Abriachan, IV3 8LD, 218. Mr M Reynard, , 219. D J Stewart, Burnside, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HP, 220. Colin Gilmour, Shenaval, Altass, By Lairg, IV27 4EU, 221. Jean & Bob Callander, Milnafaulds, 24 Boghead Road, Dumbarton, G82 2HP, 222. Mr E Freeman, Dularich, Glen Convinth, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HT, 223. David Pearson, Reelickwood Cottage, Lentran, IV3 8RN, 224. Martin Rodgers, 54 Balmacaan Road, Drumnadrochit, Inverness, IV63 6UR, 225. Mr J & Mrs D Foster, 3 Lochlait, Abriachan, Inverness, IV3 8LB, , 226. Rory And Mary Fraser, Moniack Castle, Kirkhill, Inverness, IV5 7PQ, , 227. Mr W D Ogden, Blairninich Cottage, Moniack , Kirkhill, IV5 7PQ, 228. Andrew Graeme, 16/22 Culburnie, Kiltarlity, IV4 7JJ, 229. Ms C Crockart & Mr A Ibbitson, 6 Fanellan, Kiltarlity, IV4 7JP, 230. Caroline Stanton, Lower Tornabrack, Drumnadrochit, IV63 6XF, 231. M McIntosh, 37A Fairfield Road, Inverness, IV4 7HS, 232. Alex & Fergus Matheson, 2 Ardendrain, Kiltarlity, Beauly, IV4 7HS, , 233. C A Macdonald & Others, Larch Cottage, 9 Ardendrain, Kiltarlity, Beauly, IV4 7HS, , 234. Donald Campbell, The Cottage, 6A Ardendrain, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HS, 235. Fiona Macdonald, Ardenleigh, Ardendrain, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HS, 236. James & Stuart Dingwall, Drummuir, Kiltarlity, Beauly, IV4 7JG, , 237. A & J Proctor, 59 Caulfield Road, Swindon, SN2 8BT, 238. Eilidh Green, 22 Seaforth Road, Maryburgh, IV2 8DR, 239. Irene And John Coe, Purlie Lodge, Abriachan, Inverness, IV3 8LB, , 240. Mrs Hilda Hesling, 1 Ardendrain, Kiltarlity, Beauly, IV4 7HS, , 241. Dr N R Sidle, Jura, Kiltarlity, Beauly, IV4 7HT, , 242. Caroline & Chloe MacKenzie, Craggan Lodge, Cragganvallie, Kiltarlity, Beauly, IV4 7HT, , 243. Mr D & Mrs R Duns, Dhuallan House, Glenconvinth, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HS, 244. Roland Spencer-Jones, 7 Ruisaurie, Beauly, Inverness-shire, IV4 7AJ, , 245. Christine Lovelock, 64 Windsor Road, Barnstaple, Devon, EX31 4AQ, 246. Jo Doake For Scotways, 24 Annandale Street, Edinburgh, EH7 4AN, 247. Darryl And Samantha Thompson, Achpopuli Farmhouse, Abriachan, Inverness, IV3 8LB, 248. Suzanna Matheson, Birch House, Ruifour, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HT, 249. Elaine Donnelly For Inverness West Community Council, , 250. Roy Yates, West Tomachoin, Abriachan, Inverness, IV3 8LB, , 251. Malcolm Harvey, Clach Bhan, Loaneckheim, Kiltarlity, IV4 7JQ, 252. John & Susan Cartlidge, Badger's Walk, Culmill, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HP, 253. Cosmo MacKenzie, , 254. George MacAskill, Kelowna, Glaichbea, Kiltality, IV4 7HR, 255. Mrs Pat Wells, Altchosach, Tomatin, IV13 7XZ, 256. Ruby Campbell & A Bell, The Cottage, 6A Ardendrain, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HS, 257. Fiona MacMillan, 10 Whinhill Road, Aberdeen, AB11 7XH,

SUPPORTERS

1. S Gray, 43 Birnie Terrace, Inverness, IV3 8QA 2. Isobel & Ian MacRae, 7 Scorguie Terrace, Inverness, IV3 8SE 3. Alex Glass, 37 Charleston View, Inverness, IV3 8SX 4. Michael MacDonald, 28 Diriebught Road, Inverness, IV2 3QY 5. Kirsten Laird, 39 Woodlands View, Inshes Wood, Inverness, IV2 5AQ 6. Chris, Patrick & Debbie Surtees, 7A Lewiston, Inverness-shire, IV63 6UW 7. Peter & Maureen Stanley, 77 Glengarry Road, Inverness, IV3 8NJ 8. Ian MacDonald, 41 Balmacaan Road, Drumnadrochit, Inverness, IV63 6WR 9. Mr B & Mrs J Stokes, Riverside House, Tomich, Cannich, Beauly, IV4 7LY 10. Donald Gordon MacKenzie, 15 Mackintosh Road, Inverness, IV2 3TX 11. Johan Main, 15 Mackintosh Road, Inverness, IV2 3TX 12. Mrs V & John H R Collis, Loch Ness House, Drumnadrochit, Inverness-shire, IV63 6XP 13. Mr L Mackintosh, 19 King Brude Terrace, Inverness, IV3 8PT 14. Alexander & Petra Young, Cnoc Beag, Culnakirk, Drumnadrochit, Inverness, IV63 6XS 15. A T Young, 8 Druimlon, Drumnadrochit, Inverness, IV63 6TY 16. Billy Mackintosh, 5 Loaneckheim, Kiltarlity, Beauly, IV4 7JQ 17. Michael Stokes, River-side House, Tomich, Cannich, Beauly, IV4 7LY 18. Rev John Horan, 38 Leckhampton Road, Cheltenham, GL53 0HB 19. Henry Sleigh, R Sleigh Landscapes Ltd, Croy, Inverness, IV2 5PG 20. Alistair Tait, 14 Station Crescent, Fortrose, IV10 8SZ 21. Samuel Straker-Nesbit, Blairmore, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HT 22. James & Susan Gallagher, 2 Battan Cottages, Kiltarlity, Beauly, IV4 7HT 23. Mrs Eileen Strachan, 4 Pentland Place, Peterhead 24. John Angus & Su Hay, Easter Blairfoid Cottage, Killen, Fortrose, IV10 8RA 25. Lewis Patience, Ulvescroft, School Brae, Avoch, IV9 8QJ 26. Andrew Tomney, 242 Oldtown Road, Inverness, IV2 4PT 27. David Bell, 173 Benula Road, Inverness, IV3 8EL 28. Janice & William Potts, Olrig, 3 West Lewiston, Lewiston, Drumnadrochit, Inverness, IV63 6UW 29. Jamie Glass, 24 Lochalsh Road, Inverness, IV3 8SX, 30. John, Denise, Ian & Sandra Miller, Kintore Lodge, Kintore House, St Ninians, Drumnadrochit, IV63 6XR 31. Katie Campbell, 47 Coilte Crescent, Kilmore, IV65 6TR 32. R McDiarmid, 1 Planefield Road, Inverness, IV3 5DN 33. Claire Gill, 34. Kerrie & Adam Smith, 49 Orchard Park, Beauly, IV4 7DX 35. Sandra Fraser, 6 Maxwell Drive, Inverness, IV3 5EX 36. A Bowman, 6 Maxwell Drive, Inverness, IV3 5EX 37. Steve Tingey, 1 Woodlands Place, Inshes Wood, Inverness, IV2 5DT 38. Shirley Lyons, 100 Mason Road, Inverness, IV2 3TA 39. Dawn & Alison Cheyne & Chris Duncie, 38 Balmacaan Road, Drumnadrochit, IV63 6WR 40. W E McCann, 82 Hawthorn Drive, Inverness, IV3 5RQ 41. Stuart & Annie Pow, Maggies Cottage, Achnahanet, Inverness-shire, IV63 2HZ 42. Eileen Wield, Braefield Cottage, Glenurquhart, IV63 6TN 43. Stephen Corbett, 19 Erracht Road, Inverness, IV2 4RE 44. Andrea Reid, 8 Cameron Court, Smithton, Inverness, IV2 7JU 45. Andrew Young, Garden Cottage, Farr, Inverness-shire, IV2 6XB 46. R & Derry MacDonald, 110 Laurel Avenue, Inverness, IV3 5RS 47. Paige, Leah & Stephen Callander, 55 Coilte Crescent, Kilmore, IV65 6TR 48. Mark Macleod, Fyrish, 7 Beinn Achairein View, Cannich, By Beauly, IV4 7LJ 49. David Bryce, 30 St Andrew Drive, Dalneigh, Inverness, IV3 5AR 50. Marjory MacLeod, 40 Balmacaan Road, Drumnadrochit, Inverness, IV63 6WR 51. Billy, Christine, Stuart & Neale Reid, Fraser Cottage, Lewiston, Drumnadrochit, IV63 6UW 52. John Smith, The Flat, Berryfield House, Lewiston, Drumnadrochit, IV63 6UW 53. Hilary & Robert Taggart, Culnabrae, Culnkirk, Drumnadrochit, IV63 6XS 54. Andrew & Sara Murdoch, 5 Enrick Crescent, Drumnadrochit, Inverness, IV63 6TP 55. Frank N Nicol, Farm & Garden Machinery Ltd, Strathpeffer Road, Dingwall, IV15 9QF 56. Andrew, Donald & Lorraine Urquhart, 32 Mamore Terrace, Inverness, IV3 8PF 57. P MacDonald, 74 Balmacaan Road, Drumnadrochit, Inverness, IV63 6UR 58. Steven, Susan & Carla Nairn, 31 Charleston View, Inverness, IV3 8SX 59. Lewis MacEwan Kelly Pearson, Middle House, Dalshangie, Drumnadrochit, IV63 6UR 60. D Chisholm, 30D Montague Row, Inverness, IV3 5DX 61. D M Gray, 7 Assynt Road, Inverness, IV3 8PB 62. D & K Gray, 7 Overton Avenue, Inverness, IV3 8RR 63. Larisa, Mike & Ruidhrie Cameron, Canopus, Balmacaan Road, Drumnadrochit, IV63 6UR 64. Teresa Hamblin, 6 Woodside, Drumnadrochit, IV63 6UE 65. Charmaine & Nicholas Thomson, 8 Inshes Crescent, Inverness, IV2 3SP 66. Mr N Power, 6 Maxwell Drive, Inverness, IV3 5EX 67. Sheila Lumsden, 11 St Drostans, Drumnadrochit, IV63 6UY 68. Anne Henderson & Mike Cameron, Canopus, Balmacaan Road, Drumnadrochit, IV63 6UR 69. F Johnstone, Balnuran , Culloden Road , Inverness , IV2 5EL 70. Fiona Miller, 113 Benula Road, Inverness, IV3 8EL 71. George Elder, 92 Ardness Place, Inverness, IV2 4QJ 72. Yalcin Chakarto, 73. Eric Clubley, Jacques House, Stourton, Wartwickshire, CV36 5HG 74. David Duncan, Cory Brothers Shipping Agency Ltd, Unit 1 Service Base, Shore Road, Invergordon, IV18 0EX 75. Lee Jennings, Aneataprint, 170 Drury Lane, Covent Garden, London, WC2B 5QA 76. D Chisholm, 16 Wells Street, Inverness, IV3 5JT 77. Fiona Moffat, 55 Coilte Crescent, Kilmore, IV65 6TR 78. Laura Smith, 7 Drynie Terrace, Hilltop, Inverness, IV2 4UP 79. Monica Coutts, 24 Commercial Street, Findochty, AB56 4PX 80. James Sim, 39 Woodlands View, Inshes Wood, Inverness, IV2 5AQ 81. Fred Geddes, Chartered Architect, Newtonhill, Lentran, Inverness, IV3 8RN 82. Gladys, Sarah & John Smith, 24 Dell Road, Hilton, Inverness 83. Hamid Behzadi, 84. Helen Pearson, 47 Baywell, Leybourne, West Malling, Kent ME19 5QQ 85. James Edward Dunbar, 86. James Straker-Nesbit, 87. June Stewart, Aultfearn House, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HG 88. Kim Knight, 89. Lyndsay Barnes, 47 Capital Wharf, Wapping, High Street, London, E1W 1LY 90. Oliver Riley, 47A Rosebery Road, London, SW2 4DQ 91. Virginie Gatin, 92. Miss Vikki Trelfer, 11 Alexander Place, Inverness, IV3 5BX 93. Ms Ingrid Holmes, 94. Michael Veitch, 95. Lesley & Andrew Kent, Beech House, Paddock Field, Chilbolton, Hampshire, SO20 6AU 96. Chris Spencer, 4A Eton Road, Orpington, Kent, BR6 9HE 97. Justin Butah, 98. Derek Anderson, 99. Iain Gray, 100. Juliane Weingut, 101. Mark Laidlaw, 102. Natalie Wilderspin, 103. David Jolley, 104. Vincent Laurencin, 105. Peter Bernhard, 106. Rene Chappaz, 107. Mason Carpentry Ltd, Orchard Cottage, Kingsford Street, Mersham, Ashford, Kent, TN24 9PF 108. Rupert Jones, 109. Tom Cheesman, 110. Mary Wylie, 111. Ben Gallacher, 112. Nick Geddes, 113. Joseph Robinson, 114. Sarah Atkins, 115. Jonathan Rivlin, 116. Callum Sim, 117. Vladas Gedmintas, 118. Sally Clubley, 119. Mark Taylor, 120. Alison Blake, 72 Constitution Street, Leith, EH6 6RP 121. Edward Jones, 122. Sean Carmichael, 123. Sebastian Jones, 124. Jason Rose, 125. Kunal Mehta, 126. Constance Berthier, 127. Flore Chappaz, 128. Sara Nason, 129. Brynnildsen Caspar, 130. Peter Wilton, 19 Quill Lane, Putney, London, SW15 1PB 131. David Frost, 132. Michelle Frost, 133. Scott Seton, 134. Vidar Thormodsen, 135. Ravindra Vekaria, 136. Mahesh Varsani, 137. Kirstine Foldager, 138. Anne Mette Langholm, 139. Katie Cumming-Coutts, 140. Frederick Allary, 141. Elliott Frost, 142. Arthur Halfhide, 143. Hugh Ebdy, 144. Rory Skillin, 145. Christine Fraser, 146. Angus Coutts, 147. Kaeli Gibson, 148. Fiona Tattersall, 149. Kirsty Cowie, 150. Anjali Assumall, 151. Nadia Walker, 152. Michael Mearns, 153. Neil Cockburn, 154. Gregg Beechey, 155. Prof. Karl Englisch, 156. Jon Dean, 157. Laurence Jones, 137 Northcote Road, London, SW11 6PX 158. John Macaskill, 159. Erich, Heidi & Stephanie Frei, 160. Kirsten Nafstad, 161. W T G Clarke & Susan Morrison, 29 Culduthel Mains Crescent, Inverness, IV2 6RG 162. Mark MacDonald, 7 Cameron Square, Inverness, IV3 8PY 163. James Cameron, 15 Dalneigh Road, Inverness, IV3 5AQ 164. James Alexander Glennie, 72 Torvean Avenue, Inverness, IV3 5SW 165. Murray & Mrs G Johnston, Balnuran, Clava, Culloden Moor, Inverness-shire 166. Brian Fraser & Sally Bell, 7 Cameron Square, Inverness, IV3 8PY 167. Willie Fraser, 133 Bruce Gardens, Inverness, IV3 5BD 168. Emma Wemyss, 5 Loch Ness Bungalows, Lower Balmacaan, Drumnadrochit, Inverness, IV63 6UU 169. Bartlett & Company Ltd Per Mike Briggs, 170. Tanja Havemann, 171. Praful Patel, 172. Ian Couper For North Scotland Industries Group, 173. James Gibson, 18 Druimlon, Drumnadrochit, Inverness, IV63 6TY 174. David, Robert & Mrs M Urquhart, Tarradale Game Ltd, Wyndhill Industrial Estate, Muir Of Ord, IV6 7WB 175. David, Helen & Drew Maclennan, 7 Druimlon, Drumnadrochit, Inverness, IV63 6TY 176. Iain Henderson, 13 Millbank, North Kessock, Inverness, IV1 3XJ 177. Colin MacLean, Mulbuie, 94 Balmacaan Road, Drumnadrochit, Inverness, IV63 6UR 178. Mr Malcolm & Fraser Johnstone, Balnuran, Clava, Culloden Moor, Inverness-shire 179. James & Gillian McCabe, 32 Torvean Avenue, Inverness, IV3 5SW 180. Isobel Urquhart, Culmhor, Corry Road, Muir Of Ord, IV6 7TL 181. Kathleen Hayes, 6 Muckernich Place, Tore, Muir Of Ord, IV6 7SL 182. David & Lynda Smart, Cringlethwaite, 74 Towerhill Road, Cradlehall, Inverness, IV2 5FH 183. Kate Fisher, 184. Iain Campbell, 185. John Guild Per Morrison Construction, 37 Harbour Road, Longman Industrial Estate, Inverness, IV1 1UA 186. Camille Gatin, 187. Martin Smith, 11 Priestlands Park Road, Sidcup, Kent, DA15 7HR 188. Stuart Ross, 189. Anya Owen, 190. Laura Barnes, 191. Tim Allan, 192. Gabi Englisch, 193. Geoffrey Down, 194. Alice Hay, 195. Louisa Robertson, 196. Christian Kent, 197. Douglas Simm, 4 Farm Close, Ickford, Bucks, HP18 9LY 198. John Sinclair, 199. Leigh Ward, 200. Coralie Laurencin, 201. Daniela Englisch-Proske, 202. Dawn & Gary Marshall, Dalbeg, Station Road, Beauly, IV4 7EG 203. Leanne McAllister, 22 Broomhill Road, Muir Of Ord, IV6 7TT 204. M McAllister, 15 Station Road, Beauly, IV4 7EG 205. John & Sarah Smith, 24 Dell Road, Inverness, IV2 4UE 206. Iain M Campbell, Killen Farm, Killen, Avoch, IV9 8RQ 207. Gerald & Linda Gibson, Coiltie Crescent, Drumnadrochit, IV63 6TR 208. Donald, Donella & Grahame Nicolson, 46 Coiltie Crescent, Drumnadrochit, IV63 6TR 209. Arthur Parry, Willow Cottage, 7A Ditton Grange Close, Long Ditton, Surbiton, KT6 5HQ 210. Jane Cumming, Old Station House, Station Road, Beauly, IV4 7EG, 211. Hazel Kennedy, 26 Lygon Road, Edinburgh, EH16 5QA 212. Mrs M E Marshall, East-Lea, Eastend, Beauly, IV4 7DF 213. Valerie Macleod, 16 Carn Gorm Terrace, Inverness, IV3 8NY 214. George Paton Pryde, 13 Balnakyle Road, Lochardil, Inverness, IV2 4BS 215. Mark & Nicole Van Rij, Kilmichael House, Drumnadrochit, IV63 6XS 216. Julie & W J Straker-Nesbit, Blairmore, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HT 217. G Strachan, Dunmore, Beauly, IV4 7AB 218. Jimmy Ambrose, Croft House, Wester Balblair, Beauly, IV4 7BQ 219. Dennis Kearney, 46 Drumsmittal Road, North Kessock, IV1 3JU 220. Douglas Hunter, Slatach, Glenfinnan, PH37 4LT 221. Andrew W Maxtone, 78 Holm Park, Inverness, IV2 4XU 222. Graeme Young, Cnocbeag, Culnakirk, Drumnadrochit, IV63 6XS 223. Brian Hamann, The Old Station House, Station Road, Beauly, IV4 7EG 224. C Alexander, 1 Station Crescent, Fortrose, IV10 8SE 225. A MacIver, Newton Of Novar, Evanton, IV16 9XQ 226. M MacIver, 5 Bualnaluib, Aultbea, Achnasheen, IV22 2JH 227. Young Family, Fairwinds, 22 Marine Terrace, Rosemarkie, IV10 8UL 228. T Forbes, Kinneil, Ness Road, Fortrose, IV10 8SD 229. Mrs G M Stewart, Rowan Cottage, Knockbain, Munlochy, IV8 8PG 230. J D Hearmon, Cuilcheanna, Ness Road East, Fortrose, IV10 8SE 231. Edward Downs, Cringles View, Langbar, Ilkley, LS29 0EP 232. Donald Angus MacKay, 5 Mamore Terrace, Inverness, IV3 8PF 233. Jean Strachan, 31 Richmond Avenue, Peterhead, AB42 1ZD 234. Professor Peter Jones, C/o University Of Gloucestershire, The Park, Cheltenham, GL50 2RH 235. Deruisz Roszak, 44 Old Edinburgh Court, Inverness, IV2 4FD 236. MD Shamsul Islam, 24 Millburn Court, Inverness, IV2 3PW 237. Mr Paul, 45 Old Edinburgh Court, Inverness, IV2 4FD 238. Abdul Fotik, 31 Kennedy Drive, Inverness, IV3 8QR 239. Mr Garry Coutts, Old Station, Station Road, Beauly, IV4 7EG 240. Richard Griffiths, 29 Purley Bury Close, Purley, Surrey, CR8 1HW 241. Duncan Knight, 242. Martin Pearson, 2 Abbey Brewery Court, Swan Street, West Malling, Kent, ME19 6PY 243. Simon Austin, 10 Lighthouse Road, PO Box 62, Akaroa 7542, New Zealand 244. Sophie Breakwell, William Sturges & Co, Solicitors, Burwood House, 14-16 Caxton Street, London, SW1H 0QY 245. Marc Quinn, 35 St John's Wood Terrace, London, MW8 6JL 246. Joyce Mackinnon, Milltearn, Kinkell, Conon Bridge, IV7 8AR 247. Mrs Maralyn Allan, 62 Bellfield Road, North Kessock, IV1 3XX 248. Laura James, 249. Iain Stewart, 250. Fiona Zuzarte, 251. Andrew Wilson, Development Director UBC Group Limited, 11-13 Henderson Drive, Inverness, IV1 1TR 252. Amy Brindle, 12 Viewfield Avenue, Beauly, IV4 7BW 253. B Maxwell, 9 Viewfield Avenue, Beauly, IV4 7BW 254. E Gillies, 21 Viewfield Avenue, Beauly, IV4 7BW 255. Mrs J Flynn, 14 Beaufort Gardens, Beauly, IV4 7EL 256. Mrs Natalie Durden, 49 Crofton Avenue, Bexley, Kent, DA5 3AS 257. Ruth Imrie, 17 Bridge View, Conon Bridge, Dingwall, IV7 8DA 258. Rosemary McDonald Beauly Community Council, 5 Priory Court, Beauly, IV4 7BL 259. James, Irene & Vicky Hurwood, Mulbuie, 94 Balmacaan Road, Drumnadrochit, Inverness, IV63 6UR 260. Ian Weymss, 5 Loch Ness Bungalows, Drumnadrochit, IV63 6UU 261. Ian Morrison, 32 Holm Dell Avenue, Inverness, IV2 4GW 262. David & Janet Emery, Drovers, Borlum Bridge, Lewiston, Drumnadrochit, Inverness, IV63 6UN 263. John & Edwina Stewart, 67 Glenshiel Place, Inverness, IV2 4PU 264. Mr M Shuttleworth, 1 Chetwynd Mead, Bampton, OX18 2BJ 265. Rory Ellis, 40 Heathcote Road, Twickenham, Middlesex, TW1 1RX 266. John Champion, Caerau, Ashfield Crescent, Ross On Wye, HR9 5PH 267. Mr Leslie Warne, 10 George Street, Avoch, IV9 8PU 268. Rosemary Woodhouse, 112 Balmacaan Road, Drumnadrochit, Inverness, IV63 6UR 269. Maureen Frost, 46 Old Farm Avenue, Sidcup, Kent, DA15 8AF 270. Rachel Longbottom, Rychraggan Farmhouse, Drumnadrochit, Inverness, IV63 6XT 271. Paul & E J Minton, 3 Yew Tree Gardens, Flore, Northants, NN7 4HB 272. Owner-Occupier, 13 Drumpellier Place, Dondorrat, Cumbernauld, G67 4NX 273. Stewart Nicol Inverness Chamber Of Commerce, PO Box 5512, Inverness, IV2 3ZE 274. Mrs Jean Simm, 18 Money Hill Court, Dellwood, Rickmansworth, Herfordshire, WD3 7DY 275. Donald Ross, 9 Drummond Place, Inverness, IV2 4JT 276. Mette Nafstad Brynnildsen, 277. Mark Whittle, Crosswood, West Calder, West Lothian, EH55 8LR 278. Suzanna Whittle, Testside, Fullerton Road, Wherwell, Andover, Hants 279. Graham Young & Donna Dunbar, 26 Lygon Road, Edinburgh, EH16 5QA 280. Mrs B Medlycott, Vine Cottage, Hills Lane, Northwood, Middlesex, HA6 2QL 281. I & Caroline Strachan, 37 Kirkburn Drive, Peterhead, AB42 1TG 282. Callum Grant Norscot Joinery Ltd, Bower Workshops, Bower, Wick, KW1 4TL 283. Mohammed Akbar Hossain, 18B Diriebught Road, Inverness, IV2 3QY 284. Sally Davidson, 7 Drumblair Crescent, Inverness, IV2 4RG 285. R Robertson, Viewfield Farm, Tain, IV19 1PX 286. Donald C McLennan, Craigmuir, Kilmuir, North Kessock, IV1 3ZG 287. James Grant, Darkswood, Rosehaugh East Drive, Avoch, IV9 8RE 288. Amjad Houssain For Cinnamon Restaurant, 1B Millburn Road, Inverness, IV2 3PX 289. A & M McIvor, 120 Drakies Avenue, Inverness, IV2 3SE 290. Angus & Joan Maclennan, Scorvaig, Kiltarlity, Beauly, IV4 7HT 291. W Matheson Groundworks Ltd, Fassock, Kiltarlity, 292. Jamie Stewart, 90 Blarmore Avenue, Inverness, IV3 8QU 293. Lyndsey M Ross, 90 Blarmore Avenue, Inverness, IV3 8QU 294. Mrs Carol Mackail, The Old School, Glenuig, Lochailort, PH38 4NB 295. Alasdair Meek, 3 Main Street, Balintore, IV20 1UE 296. Peter Swales Invernational Big Game & Bird Hunting, Lower Altnaharry, Kiltarlity, IV4 7HR 297. Mark Campbell, 59 Old Evanton Road, Dingwall, IV15 9RB 298. D MacKay, Glendale, Mossfield, Invergordon, IV18 0LG 299. S Ross, 1A Sgitheach Place, Evanton, Dingwall, IV16 9UD 300. Sandy & Marjorie Blackley, Dalmeny, Lewiston, Drumnadrochit, Inverness, IV63 6UJ 301. Christopher Macleod, Fyrish, 7 Bein A Chairen View, Cannich, Beauly, IV4 7LJ 302. Scottish Council For Development & Industry, James Alexander, Policy & Communications Manager, Ballantyne House, 84 Academy Street, Inverness, IV1 1LU 303. Colin Mann Scottish Woodlands, Research Park, Riccarton, Edinburgh, EH14 4AP 304. Mr Charles Straker-Nesbit, 2 Seymour Close, Selly Park, Birmingham, B29 7JD 305. Norman MacDonald, Cafe 1 Ltd, Castle Street, Inverness 306. Richard G Till Bell Ingram, Chartered Surveyors, Durn, Isla Road, Perth, PH2 7HF