Temporary wind mast at Craes Hill 4.7 Km South Of Moniaive, Dunreggan

What was proposed

A guyed mast up to 91 metres high would collect wind and weather data for five years before removal and site restoration.

“A guyed anemometry mast of up to 91 metres in height is proposed to be located for a temporary period of five years to collect wind and weather data. The mast is of a tubular construction, and typical for a development of this type, secured in place by guyed lines. Various anemometers, wind vanes and other recording equipment are located at intervals over the mast’s height. Guy lines are required to…”

Officer report

The site

The 0.65-hectare site is open upland moor on Craes Hill, 4.7 kilometres south of Moniaive, within a foothills landscape.

“Site location and description 1.2 The application site is located 4.7 kilometres south of the village of Moniaive and comprises an open area of upland moor, 0.65 hectares in size, on the eastern summit of Craes Hill at approximately 348 metres AOD.”

Officer report

Planning history

There is no noted recent or relevant planning history for the site.

“There is no noted recent or relevant planning history relating to the site.”

Officer report

Officers recommended approval

Officers recommended approval subject to conditions because the mast was temporary, lightweight, commonly used and considered compliant with development plan policies.

“Representations: The volume and nature of representations are considered to be material. It is noted that objections have been received on a variety of grounds including landscape and visual impacts, impacts on wildlife and ecology as well as aviation impacts, all of which have been assessed above.”

“Conclusions 4.17 In conclusion, this proposal represents an industry standard, lightweight piece of infrastructure that is commonly used to monitor wind speeds. The installation, operation and decommissioning processes are not intensive or disruptive, the operational period is temporary, and in addition conditions can secure appropriate mitigation and removal of the mast at the end of the temporary period.”

Officer report

Consultation responses

The Community Council objected, while the Ministry of Defence, NATS and the Council Roads Officer raised no objections subject to requirements where stated.

“Ministry of Defence - No objections subject to conditions relating to aviation lighting and recording of development location.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The committee heard from four objectors and the applicant.

The application was deferred

The committee deferred consideration of the application to allow a site visit to be arranged.

“DEFERRED consideration of application 26/0952/FUL to allow a site visit to be arranged.”

Minutes