Heritage protectors defend stance not to oppose turbine at Dirleton Castle
Wind turbine on the farm near to Dirleton Castle
Historical experts have stood by their controversial decision not to object to a 20 metre high wind turbine next to Dirleton Castle.
The structure was installed on Castlemains Farm beside the ruined fortress - a Scheduled Ancient Monument dating back to the 13th century - which attracted a wave of opposition and dismay at why the plan was given the go-ahead.
A request from local councillors for W J Simpson and Son’s application to be debated by the planning committee was too late as it had been approved by East Lothian Council’s planning chief under delegated procedures.
Representatives from Historic Scotland, a Scottish Government agency which protects the historic environment, were invited to state their case at a heated meeting of Gullane Area Community Council last week.
A crowd of around 25 members of the public crowded into Aberlady Stables to hear Andrew Martindale, head of heritage management east, and archaeologist Rory McDonald, senior heritage management officer of ancient monuments east, outline the reasons behind Historic Scotland’s stance.
Chairman Alastair McIntosh branded the turbine, which is located 165 metres from the castle, “an eyesore” which stuck out “like a sore thumb” and was seen by tens of thousands of people who passed along the local tourist route.
Full story in the East Lothian News - on sale now.
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Weather for Musselburgh
Sunday 26 May 2013
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 8 C to 16 C
Wind Speed: 15 mph
Wind direction: West
Tomorrow
Light rain
Temperature: 8 C to 12 C
Wind Speed: 18 mph
Wind direction: South
