Project Background
Ventient Energy were applying for a Section 42 variation to Condition 1 of the existing planning
consent for Glenerkie Wind Farm at land near Holmes Waterhead, Broughton, Scottish Borders. The Section 42 variation sought to extend the operational period of the wind farm beyond the agreed 25-year period. No changes to existing turbines or infrastructure were proposed.
Scope of services
RSK were commissioned to produce the necessary environmental reports to accompany the planning application for the extension to the operational life of the existing wind farm. The scope of the project was developed through close collaboration between RSK, the client and their planning consultants.
· We reviewed the previous planning documents for the existing wind farm, including an Environmental Statement and Habitat Management Plan that were produced in 2007, as well as subsequent monitoring reports.
· We undertook an assessment of the potential implications on ecology and ornithology of the proposed operational life extension for the wind farm.
· We were subsequently invited to produce an update to the original Habitat Management Plan for the site.
Much of the post-construction monitoring data for the original wind farm was missing, and many of the habitat creation/enhancement measures that were implemented previously had also failed.
We therefore adopted a precautionary approach, using professional judgement to address data gaps, and with reference to ecological data from the local surrounding area. Following a site visit and consultation with the landowner and client, we proposed alternative habitat creation and enhancement measures that were more in keeping with the farming practices, so as to reduce the risk of future failure.
Impact
From the outset, we developed a close working relationship with the client to fully understand their project and programme requirements. We drew on our technical expertise across the RSK Biocensus businesses to solve technical challenges, and the project was successfully awarded planning consent in 2023, following the submission of our reports to the local planning authority.