A WINDFARM constructor and operator claimed “terrain” would block the visual impact of a proposed scheme close to Peebles.

Pete Thomas and Doug Wilson, from Belltown Power, gave a presentation at a meeting of the town’s community council (PCC) this month.

It followed a similar talk last month at Innerleithen and District Community Council.

Mr Thomas said that 13 turbines are planned, with a maximum tip height of 200 metres, in land north-west of Glentress Forest.

PCC chairman Peter Maudsley said: “These are large turbines, perched up above Peebles and will be fairly visible.

“This is the third development which is close to Peebles.

“When you are putting together the viewpoint data will it include the other two windfarms?”

Mr Wilson said: “There is likely to be attrition in the height and number of turbines.”

Mr Thomas added: “They may be seen from other high places but the terrain between them and Peebles will block the majority from sight.”

One turbine is planned for Dunslair Heights, which stands 602m above the town in Glentress Forest.

PCC member Heather Young asked about the issue of government money being paid for wind farms not to run when surplus energy is being produced.

Mr Thomas said: “These are called constraint payments.

“There’s a fundamental rule that they have to pay for generators to switch off.

“It is easier for renewables to switch off than other forms of generation.”

The meeting was also told about a Beltown Power scheme for households in a specific area near the wind farm to benefit from its energy bill annual discount scheme.

In addition there would be the possibility of community ownership, of part of the scheme, with one per cent provided free and a further four per cent at cost through Local Energy Scotland.

Mr Thomas also said there would be community exhibitions at public meetings to discuss the plans in March and September next year.

He said: “We are keen to get as much feedback as possible.”