181 turbine Wind plan approved

Plans for one of Europe's largest onshore wind farms have been
approved by the Western Isles Council.

"The £500m project, which will see 181 giant turbines built on the
Isle of Lewis, has divided the community.
Opponents warn of long-term environmental damage while supporters
point to economic benefits, including more than 400 jobs during
construction.

Councillors voted by 18 to eight to support the plan. The final
decision rests with the Scottish Executive.

Critics of the scheme insist it would scar the landscape and damage
one of the largest peat bogs in the world.
The RSPB said the Lewis wind farm threatened habitats and bird-life of
European significance.
However, developers claimed that even after construction the project
would create 70 ongoing operating and maintenance jobs. "

Story from BBC NEWS

full article:-
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/1/hi/scotland/highlands_and_islands/6363359.stm

Published: 2007/02/15 22:35:29 GMT

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