ES Design and Access Statement - Partnerships for Renewables

Carron Valley Wind Farm 

Design and Access Statement 

July 2012


Quality Management 

Prepared by: 

Name: Alan Seath Title: Assoc. Planning Director 

Signature: 

Authorised by: 

Name: Alan Pollock Title: Director of Planning 

Signature: 

Current Status: 

Final 

Issue Date: July 2012 

Revision Number: - 

Revision Notes: - 

Project File Path: W:\2069SAE - Carron Valley Wind Farm\admin\Reports\ES Final\Carron Valley - 

Design and Access Statement FINAL.doc 

This report has been prepared within the RPS Planning and Development Quality Management 

System to British Standard EN ISO 9001 : 2008 

COPYRIGHT © RPS 

The material presented in this report is confidential. This report has been prepared for the exclusive use of 

Partnerships for Renewables and shall not be distributed or made available to any other company or 

person without the knowledge and written consent of Partnerships for Renewables or RPS. 

July 2012 


Copyright Partnerships for Renewables Development Co. Ltd 2012 ©


Contents 

1 INTRODUCTION 

Introduction 

2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 

The Applicant 

The Forestry Commission Scotland 

Application Site 

The Application 

3 SITE DESCRIPTION AND CONTEXT 

Site Description 

Landscape Character 

Landscape Designations 

Nature Conservation Designations 

Cultural Heritage 

Settlements 

Access and Recreation 

4 DESIGN STRATEGY AND PRINCIPLES 

Aim and Scope of the Design Strategy 

Site Selection 

Design Strategy Principles 

Planning Policy and Guidance 

SNH Locational and Design Guidance 

5 DESIGN EVOLUTION 

Turbine Form 

Turbine Colour 

Turbine Size 

Turbine Layout 

Consultation Reponses 

6 DESIGN SOLUTION 

7 ACCESS 

Vehicle Access 

Public Access 

Disabled Access 

8 REFERENCES 

Figures 

July 2012 




1 Introduction 

Introduction 

1.1 This Design and Access Statement has been prepared by RPS on behalf of Partnerships for 

Renewables Ltd (herein referred to as ‘PfR’) to accompany a planning application seeking 

permission to construct, operate and then decommission a wind farm comprising 15 turbines 

and ancillary development at Carron Valley, Stirling (herein after referred to as ‘the proposed 

wind farm’). 

1.2 The purpose of this Design and Access Statement is to provide design principles and concepts 

that have been applied to the proposed wind farm. This Design and Access Statement: 

• explains the approach adopted to design and how the policies relating to design in the 

Development Plan have been taken into account; 

• describes the steps taken to appraise the context of the development and demonstrate 

how the design of the proposed wind farm takes that context into account; 

• identifies the consultation undertaken during the pre-application stage on issues 

relating to design and sets out what account was taken of this consultation. 

1.3 Details are also provided regarding access to and throughout the site for construction and 

maintenance, to include access for disabled persons where relevant. 

1.4 The Design and Access Statement should be read in conjunction with the Environmental 

Statement (ES) prepared by RPS on behalf of PfR as part of the planning application. The ES 

contains information about the design strategy, evolution of the proposals, predicted landscape 

and visual effects, transport and access. It should also be read in conjunction with the Pre 

Application Consultation (PAC) Report prepared by PfR which gives details of the preapplication 

consultation undertaken for the proposed wind farm, the comments made during 

the consultation and the changes made to the proposals as a consequence of the opinions 

expressed by the public. 

July 2012 1 Design and Access Statement 



2 Project Description 

The Applicant 

Partnerships for Renewables 

2.1 The applicant is Carron Valley Wind Farm LLP, which is the legal entity set up for the sole 

purpose of developing the Carron Valley Wind Farm. Carron Valley Wind Farm LLP is wholly 

owned by Partnerships for Renewables Ltd (hereafter referred to as ‘PfR’), who act as, and will 

be referred to as, the developer for this project. 

2.2 PfR was set up by the Carbon Trust in 2006 to develop, construct and operate renewable 

energy projects primarily on public sector land. The public sector can play a significant part in 

the effort to increase renewables capacity, as public sector bodies own approximately 10 % of 

the land in the UK (over one million hectares) and thousands of buildings. 

2.3 Carbon Trust Enterprises remains PfR’s single largest shareholder with backing from two 

major private sector shareholders (the InfraRed Environmental Infrastructure Fund (formerly 

the HSBC Environmental Infrastructure Fund) and OP Trust, a Canadian public sector pension 

fund). 

2.4 PfR works primarily in partnership with public sector bodies throughout the entire development 

process and covers all development costs. Focused on a development process tailored to the 

specific needs of the public sector, PfR provides a way for public sector bodies to access the 

economic and environmental benefits associated with renewable energy projects. 

2.5 In addition to FCS, PfR is currently working with a variety of public sector bodies across the UK 

including the Environment Agency, the Ministry of Justice, British Waterways, the Coal 

Authority, Clackmannanshire Council and a number of other local authorities and education 

establishments. PfR has achieved development consent for three onshore wind energy 

projects to date, at Standford Hill, Boddington and Oakdale. 

2.6 Further information about PfR and its public sector partners can be found at www.pfr.co.uk. 

Forestry Commission Scotland – Scottish Lowlands Forest District 

2.7 Forest Enterprise Scotland is the Forestry Commission Scotland’s operating arm delivering the 

Forest Strategy on the National Forest Estate. Scottish Lowlands Forest District is working 

with PfR to assist in the delivery of its economic and climate change objectives set by 

Government and the Forestry Commission as described below. 

2.8 The Scottish Forestry Strategy (Scottish Executive, 2006) sets out the Government’s aims and 

objectives for all forestry in Scotland. It describes how forestry will deliver diverse benefits to 

the people, economy and environment of Scotland. The strategy describes at Outcome 3 that 

in helping to tackle climate change, forest managers should “encourage [..] renewable energy 

projects on forest land”. This is reinforced in the National Forest Estate Strategic Plan 2009 – 

2013 (Forestry Commission Scotland, 2009a) and the Forestry Commission’s Climate Change 

Action Plan 2009 – 2011 (Forestry Commission Scotland, 2009b) where one of the key actions 

is to: 

“In co-operation with other organisations working to develop the use of renewable 

energy, promote the use of forest land for all forms of renewable energy production, 

subject to appropriate environmental and planning safeguards.” 




2.9 The Scottish Lowlands Forest District Strategic Plan 2009 - 2013 (Forestry Commission 

Scotland, 2009c) describes the principal methods of delivering its renewable energy objectives 

within the national policy framework and industry standards for sustainable forest 

management. Key themes 1 Climate Change and 3 – Business Development state that the 

Forest District will: 

• DL 1.01 - Maximise the potential for wind farms and other renewable energy projects 

with regard to landscape, biodiversity, public access, community and economic values 

(key theme 1); 

• SL 3.13 – Seek the best and most reliable returns from developments to support our 

objectives locally and nationally, supported by expert help and well trained staff (key 

theme 3). 

2.10 By developing renewable energy projects, the Forestry Commission is helping to limit and 

adapt to the effects of climate change, reduce dependency on fossil fuels and help develop a 

low-carbon economy. It is also securing economic benefits for the Forestry Commission and 

local communities. These economic benefits are both directly identified as income to the 

Forestry Commission and local communities as well as indirect benefits to the rural economy. 

2.11 For further information on the Forestry Commission Scotland visit: 

www.forestry.gov.uk/Scotland and for further information on renewables on Forestry 

Commission land visit the forest renewables website http://www.forestry.gov.uk/windhydro. 

Working in Partnership – FCS and PfR 

2.12 The proposed wind farm is being developed by PfR in partnership with FCS. The partnership 

runs over two forestry districts, Scottish Borders and Lowlands. Initial screening of the two 

districts identified over a dozen sites with potential ranging from single turbine projects to 

strategic scale developments. It is expected that the portfolio of sites will deliver around 

250 MW of installed capacity. 

2.13 This working relationship ensures optimal compatibility between forest management and 

benefits and wind energy production. The projects are carefully designed to work well with 

existing forestry operations, provide opportunities to enhance biodiversity and encourage local 

communities to build a real stake in projects that are local to them. 

2.14 The structure of the partnership involves a staged approach of development, where the 

existing Forest Design Plan informs the wind farm design and acceptability of wind turbines 

and associated infrastructure, notwithstanding that the existing forest management is part of an 

overall set of constraints that affect the design of the proposal. 

2.15 FCS’s extensive knowledge of the Carron Valley area in terms of environmental and technical 

issues has been key in understanding the characteristics of the development site. 

Application Site 

2.16 The site is located approximately 10 km north west of Cumbernauld and approximately 7 km 

north of Kilsyth. It comprises productive plantation woodland, open hill areas and land awaiting 

forest planting post tree removal all managed by the Forestry Commission Scotland (FCS). 

The location of the site is shown on Figure DS1. 

The Application 

2.17 PfR is applying to Stirling Council for: 

• 15 variable pitch (three bladed) wind turbines; 




• reinforced concrete gravity foundations at each wind turbine; 

• a crane hardstanding adjacent to each wind turbine; 

• a single storey pitched roof control building; 

• underground electrical cabling; 

• one permanent anemometry mast; 

• three borrow pit areas; 

• temporary construction compound; and 

• access tracks from the B818 and throughout the site with crossing points and passing 

places. 

2.18 The installed capacity of each turbine will not be greater than 3 megawatts (MW) and the total 

installed capacity of the proposed wind farm will not be greater than 45 MW. 

2.19 The proposed wind turbines will have a maximum blade tip height of 126 m. A range of wind 

turbine models will be suitable for the site, and the final choice of turbine will be dependent on 

the wind analysis, turbine economics and available technology at the time of construction. 

2.20 Foundation construction design will be finalised at the detailed design engineering stage. A 

crane hardstanding area of approximately 45 m by 25 m will be required adjacent to each wind 

turbine base to provide a stable base for construction and crane erection activities. 

2.21 The power produced by the wind turbines will be fed to a control building. The control building 

would measure approximately 5 m by 10 m by 5.5 m high and would house a control room, 

switch room and a metering room. Cabling connecting the wind turbines to the switch room is 

to be laid alongside the access tracks to minimise the environmental impact of the cable laying 

operation. 

2.22 Detailed ground investigations including geotechnical testing and slope stability will be required 

to inform detailed design of the proposed borrow pits. 

2.23 A temporary hard-cored construction compound will be required during the construction period. 

The compound will be approximately 50 m by 50 m and will house temporary portacabins for 

materials storage and welfare facilities. The area will also be used for refuelling and concrete 

batching. Once construction is completed, the compound will be removed and the area 

restored. 

2.24 The proposed wind farm is expected to operate for 25 years. At the end of this period it will 

either be decommissioned or a further planning application submitted to extend the lifetime of 

the operations on site. 

2.25 A detailed description of the proposed wind farm is contained within ES Chapter 4: Description 

of the Proposed Development. 




3 Site Description and Context 

Site Description 

3.1 The site is part of Cairnoch Hill, which forms the northern block of the Carron Valley Forest. It 

is located within Stirlingshire, approximately 10 km north-west of Cumbernauld and 

approximately 7 km north of Kilsyth, Central Scotland at approximate grid reference NS 6970 

8550. 

3.2 The elevation of the site varies from approximately 225 m AOD to approximately 413 m AOD 

at its peak. Cairnoch Hill comprises approximately 505 ha of productive plantation woodland. 

The area within the proposed wind farm application boundary comprises approximately 

340.6 ha. 

3.3 Whilst the majority of the site consists of plantation woodland there is also an open hill area 

which has not been afforested and other open areas within the forest awaiting restocking post 

tree removal during harvesting operations. 

3.4 The southern boundary of the site is formed by the B818 and then the Carron Valley Reservoir. 

The remainder of Carron Valley Forest is located to the south of the reservoir and provides a 

well used recreational resource for walkers, mountain bikers and horse riders, and 

incorporates hills at Meikle Bin (570 m AOD), Little Bin (443 m AOD), and Drumbuoy (393 m 

AOD). 

3.5 A number of properties lie along the B818 and further isolated properties are situated within the 

vicinity of the site. 

3.6 Cairnoch Hill is drained by forestry drainage systems and by a number of small unnamed 

watercourses. The southern hill slopes drain towards Carron Valley Reservoir. Towards the 

north-east small watercourses discharge into the Earl’s Burn which confluences with the River 

Carron downstream of Carron Valley Reservoir. The River Carron discharges into the Firth of 

Forth near Grangemouth. The north-western hill slopes drain via an unnamed burn to the 

Endrick Water. The Endrick Water flows west and discharges into Loch Lomond near 

Balmaha. 

Landscape Character 

3.7 The application site is located in the Lowland River Valley Landscape Character Type (LCT). 

The dominant feature of this landscape is the Carron Valley Reservoir which nestles within and 

is enclosed by the volcanic rock masses of the Campsie Fells and Gargunnock, Fintry and 

Kilsyth Hills. The River Carron, which rises from Locket Hill in the Campsie Fells, has been 

dammed on its journey eastwards to create this long curving sweep of water. Along the 

southern edges numerous inlets interweave between jutting promontories, backed by the 

steep, mostly convex slopes of Meikle Bin (570 m), Little Bin and Cock Hill. To the north the 

smoother, more rounded forms of Cairnoch, Craigannet and Dun daff Hills drop down to the 

even, sweeping margins of the reservoir. 

3.8 The hillsides are covered almost entirely by mature coniferous plantations, which extend up to 

the edges of the reservoir, leaving only the peaks of Meikle Bin, Little Bin and Cairnoch Hill 

exposed. Along the northern edge of the reservoir narrow drifts of mixed and deciduous trees 

are scattered. 

3.9 Only a few houses and farmsteads of varied styles dot the winding line of the B818 along the 

northern perimeter, generally restricted towards the eastern end of the reservoir, leaving the 




hillsides uninhabited. The forest walks which run through the southern hillsides commence at 

the small parking area below Cock Hill, and are a popular recreational resource. 

3.10 The simple composition of water and afforested hillside, combined with a lack of settlement 

and the position of the reservoir within the hills, creates a moderately remote atmosphere. The 

sweep of the reservoir leads the eye westwards towards the banded edge of the Fintry Hills 

and beyond, backed by the hazy profile of the Trossachs. The tight circle of hills and blanket 

coniferous woodland creates a powerful sense of enclosure, lessened only by glimpses 

westwards. 

3.11 Further details on the of the landscape character of the site and the surrounding area are 

contained in ES Chapter 9: Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment. 

Landscape Designations 

3.12 There are no national landscape designations on the site of the proposed wind farm. The 

nearest national landscape designation is The Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park 

which lies approximately 20 km to the north west of the application site. 

3.13 The Special Qualities of The Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park are outlined in 

Scottish Natural Heritage and Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park Authority (2020) 

Commissioned Report, No.376, and are determined as follows: 

• ‘A world-renowned landscape farmed for its beauty; 

• Wild and rugged highlands contrasting with pastoral lowlands; 

• Water in its many forms; 

• The rich variety of woodlands; 

• Settlements nestled within a vast natural backdrop; 

• Famous through-routes; 

• Tranquillity; and, 

• The easily accessible landscape splendour.’ 

3.14 The application site falls within an Area of Great Landscape Value (AGLV) as defined on the 

Clackmannanshire and Stirling Structure Plan (2007) Key Diagram. This AGLV extends from 

Kill earn in the west to Stirling in the east and comprises the northern slopes of the Campsie 

Fells, the Fintry Hills, Touch Hills and Gargunnock Hills. 

Nature Conservation Designations 

3.15 There are no statutory designated nature conservation sites within the application site. Other 

designations in the vicinity of the application site are identified in Table 1 below. 




Table 1 Nature Conservation Designations 

Site Name 

and 

Designations 

Distance 

from Site 

Statutory Designated Sites 

Endrick Water 2.2 km west 

SAC and of site 

SSSI boundary. 

Denny Muir 

SSSI 

Double Craigs 

SSSI 

Carron Glen 

SSSI 

4 km 

southeast of 

the site 

boundary. 

4.6 km west 

of site 

boundary. 

4.8 km east 

of site 

boundary. 

Non-Statutory Designated Sites 

Carron Valley 0.4 km south 

Reservoir of site 

(proposed boundary. 

LNCS) 

Upper Endrick 

Water LNCS 

Ballochleam 

Crags LNCS 

Double Craigs 

LNCS 

Cultural Heritage 

2.4 km west 

of site 

boundary. 

4.7 km 

northwest of 

site 

boundary 

4.8 km west 

of site 

boundary 

Reason for its Designation 

The SAC is designated for river lamprey (Lampetra fluviatilis), 

brook lamprey (Lampetra planeri) and Atlantic salmon (Salmo 

sala). 

The SSSI is designated for brook lamprey, river lamprey and 

Scottish dock (Rumex aquaticus). 

This site is designated for its subalpine acid grassland, 

blanket bog and basin fen flora. 

The site is designated for its sub-alpine calcareous grassland. 

This site is designated for its upland oak, upland mixed ash 

woodland and lowland neutral grasses. 

This site was provisionally designated as a wildlife site or 

Local Nature Conservation Site (LNCS) in the late 1980’s but 

has not been formally surveyed. The provisional designation 

was based on freshwater, wetland, bird, amphibian and insect 

interests potentially on the site. 

Upper Endrick Water consists of an aggregate of many 

different habitat types, which support over 140 vascular plant 

species along a 3 km stretch of river east of Fintry. 

Ballochleam Crags are a line of cliffs and steep slopes which 

hold a variety of largely undisturbed and natural habitats. This 

site holds several species which are scarce or uncommon 

within the surrounding landscape. 

The designation is based on the presence of alkaline rock 

scree flora including Minuartia verna, Anthyllis vulneraria and 

early purple orchid. 

3.16 Sir John de Graham’s Castle, a Scheduled Monument, is situated to the south west of the 

application site. The site is thought to have been the residence of Sir John de Graham, who 

was killed at the battle of Falkirk in 1298 - however, the castle itself may be of earlier date, 

probably the principal stronghold of the Barony of Dundaff (on record in 1237). 

Settlements 

3.17 The nearest settlements are Fintry (approximately 6.5 km west of the application site 

boundary), Lennoxtown (approximately 8.5 km southwest of the application site boundary), 

Milton of Campsie (approximately 8 km southwest of the application site boundary), and Kilsyth 

(approximately 7 km to the south of the application site boundary). 

Access and Recreation 

3.18 There are no public rights of way or long distance paths or cycle routes crossing or passing 

through the site, although public access to the area in general for recreational purposes is 

afforded by the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003. The ground directly adjacent to Sir John de 




Graham’s castle is occasionally used for wild camping in the summer months and the most 

southerly forest track is often used by dog walkers, otherwise there would appear in practice to 

be little public access to the wider site and is not considered to be of high recreational value. 

3.19 The majority of access and recreational activity takes place to the south east of the Carron 

Valley Reservoir, where a car park and toilet block facilitate the use of a number of mountain 

bike routes, promoted paths and the forest track network. There is also a more informal car 

park at the western end of the reservoir which provides alternative shorter access via forest 

tracks to the Meikle Bin summit. Within the wider study area, The Touch – Gargunnock – 

Fintry Hills-Carron Valley area has an established and growing importance for recreation. Hill 

walking, touring by car and mountain biking are all popular. 




4 Design Strategy and Principles 

Aim and Scope of the Design Strategy 

4.1 The overall aim of the design strategy for the proposed wind farm was to minimise, and where 

possible avoid, environmental constraints whilst maximising the potential energy production 

value of the site in order to contribute to renewable energy targets. The design strategy also 

sought to take into account in technical constraints. 

4.2 The design strategy considers both site selection, which covers how PfR identified the 

proposed Carron Valley site from over 30 sites owned by FCS in the Scottish Lowlands and 

Scottish Borders Forest Districts, and site design, which focussed on considering layout 

options for the proposed Carron Valley site in response to site conditions. 

Site Selection 

4.3 PfR investigated over 30 potential sites managed by FCS in the Scottish Borders and Scottish 

Lowlands Forest Districts. Each of these potential sites were screened against the following 

selection criteria: 

• indicative wind speed; 

• proximity to residential areas; 

• proximity to grid; 

• site access; 

• available land area; and 

• aviation constraints. 

4.4 After the screening exercise, each of the 30 sites were classified as either being of ‘good’, 

‘medium’ and ‘low’ potential for a wind farm on the basis of the above selection criteria. 

4.5 Following this initial screening exercise, those sites identified as being of ‘good’ potential were 

then further investigated using a Geographical Information System (GIS) and classified as 

having ‘best’, ‘medium’ or ‘low’ potential. 

4.6 As a result of this process, a shortlist of preferred sites for wind energy developments was 

created which prioritised sites according to their potential. The proposed Carron Valley site 

was identified as one of the sites of ‘best’ potential on the following grounds: 

• higher than average wind speeds (6.5 to 9.5 m/s at 80 m hub height); 

• is located in a relatively isolated location away from main residential areas; 

• scale of land available for development enables potential aviation constraints to be 

overcome; and 

• benefits from existing good access to the site for construction purposes. 

4.7 Following site selection, a detailed feasibility study was undertaken to confirm that the 

proposed Carron Valley site would be suitable for a wind energy development. This feasibility 

study took into account the selection criteria identified above, but also took into account 




additional constraints including landscape and visual potential and site specific technical 

constraints. 

Design Strategy Principles 

4.8 The key design strategy principles are: 

• to develop a layout that provides operational capability, efficiency and effectiveness; 

• to develop a layout that utilises existing infrastructure and integrates with current and 

proposed future land use as far as possible; 

• to produce a cohesive layout that relates to the site and surrounding landscape context 

and is easy to understand; 

• to develop a layout and design that is in keeping with other existing wind farms in the 

vicinity; 

• to develop a layout that responds to the landform and topography of the site; 

• to develop a layout that minimises impacts on landscape and visual amenity of the 

surrounding area; 

• to develop a layout that is technically and economically viable; 

• to develop a layout that fulfils the above objectives whilst minimising, or where possible 

avoiding, environmental and technical constraints including ecology, ornithology, 

archaeology, telecommunication constraints, aviation and defence constraints, 

settlements and properties sensitive to noise and shadow flicker and other constraints 

identified through the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and comments from 

stakeholders and the general public. 

Planning Policy and Guidance 

4.9 The design evolution and final design solution has been influenced by a range of planning 

policy considerations. Full details of the planning policies relevant to the proposed wind farm 

are provided in the Planning Statement which also accompanies the planning application. 

4.10 The Development Plan for the site of the proposed wind farm comprises: 

• Clackmannanshire and Stirling Structure Plan (approved 2002) with subsequent 

Alterations: 

- First Alteration – Renewable Energy (approved June 2004); 

- Second Alteration – Indicative Forestry Strategy (approved August 2004). 

• Stirling Council Local Plan (adopted December 1999) with Alterations: 

- Alteration 1A – Stirling and Rural Villages (adopted 2002); 

- Alteration 2 – Stirling’s Major Growth Area (adopted 2004). 

4.11 Of all the Alterations to the Development Plan, only the First Alteration of the Structure Plan 

relating to renewable energy is considered relevant to the proposed Wind Farm. Development 

Plan policies relevant to design and access are identified in Table 2 below. 




4.12 Stirling Council is at present preparing a Local Development Plan for Stirling. The Draft 

Proposed Plan was published in October 2011, with Stirling Council hoping to publish the 

Proposed Plan in August 2012. The Plan will be supported by new Supplementary Planning 

Guidance, including new guidance on wind farm developments. Policies of the Draft Proposed 

Plan and the draft Supplementary Planning Guidance on Wind Farms relevant to design and 

access are identified in Table 2 below. 

Table 2 Policies of the Draft Proposed Local Development Plan for Stirling 

Plan Policy Comment 

Clackmannanshire 

Policy SD1: Key Principles 

and 

Stirling 

Structure Plan 

provides that in the assessment of 

development proposals, Councils 

will consider the contribution of 

the development to the Plan's 

strategy of "Working Towards 

Sustainable Development". This 

assessment will be based on a set 

of criteria, including: 

• that full account has been taken 

of impact on the environment. 

• that the potential of the 

development to contribute to the 

enhancement of the quality and 

distinctiveness of the built and 

natural environment has been 

addressed. 

• that the potential of the 

development to promote 

efficient use and re-use of 

resources including energy, 

land and infrastructure has 

been addressed. 

Policy ENV2: Protected 

Landscapes provides that in 

Areas of Great Landscape Value 

development will only be 

permitted if it satisfies the 

requirements of Policy ENV3 and 

can be accommodated without 

adversely affecting the overall 

quality of the designated 

landscape. 

Policy ENV3: Development in 

the Countryside provides that in 

areas of countryside proposals 

should, in function, siting and 

design, be suitable for its 

particular location, and should 

respect and preserve features 

contributing to local character. 

Policy ENV6: The Historic and 

Built Environment provides that 

the Councils will seek to ensure 

that cultural heritage resources 

are recognised, recorded, 

Section 5 of this Statement provides 

details on how the layout of the 

proposed wind farm is the result of a 

well thought out design process that 

is intended to develop a layout that 

provides operational capability, 

efficiency and effectiveness whilst 

minimising, and where possible 

avoiding, adverse impacts on the 

environment. 


details on how the layout and design 

of the proposed wind farm sought to 

minimise as far as possible impacts 

on the landscape and visual 

resource. 

Chapter 9: Landscape and Visual 

Impact Assessment of the ES 

provides a comprehensive 

assessment of the predicted effect of 

the proposed wind farm on Areas of 

Great Landscape Value. 



of the proposed wind farm is the 

result of a well thought out, 

landscape-led design process that is 

intended to respect the context of the 

site and the surrounding area. 



of the proposed wind farm took into 

account impacts on the historic and 

built environment, in particular the 





protected and enhanced as setting of Sir John de Graham’s 

appropriate, and that new Castle Scheduled Monument. 

development respects and Amendments were made including 

contributes to the character and reducing the number of turbines in 

quality of the area. 

proximity of this scheduled 

Stirling 

Council Local 

Plan 

Policy ENV16: Wind Energy 

provides that individual proposals 

for wind energy development will 

be assessed against, amongst 

other criteria, their relationship to 

established and approved 

developments and those that are 

currently the subject of 

undetermined applications. It 

states that proposals will not 

normally be acceptable where 

they would result in an adverse 

effect upon amenity, or features of 

scenic and/or heritage value, by 

reason of cumulative visual 

impact. 

Keynote Policy 2 provides that 

new development must, insofar as 

practicable, protect environmental 

assets, conserve resources and 

keep environmental impacts to a 

minimum. 

Policy POL.E12 relates 

specifically to wind farm 

developments. It sets out a range 

of criteria wind farm proposals will 

be assessed against, including, 

amongst other criteria: 

• The siting of external 

appearance of apparatus have 

been chosen in order to 

minimise the impact on amenity, 

while respecting operational 

efficiency. 

• The development will not result 

in unacceptable intrusion into 

the landscape. 

• Access for construction and 

maintenance traffic can be 

achieved without compromising 

highway safety or causing 

unacceptable permanent and 

significant change to the 

environment. 

• The development will have no 

significant detrimental effect on 

any designated heritage 

features, including Listed 

Buildings, Conservation Areas, 

Ancient Monuments, Historic 

Monument. 




account the relationship with other 

existing and approved wind farms. 



proposed wind farm is the result of a 

well thought out design process that 

is intended to protect environmental 

assessments and minimise impacts 

on environmental resources. 

The design of the individual wind 

turbines to be used, in terms of their 

scale, design and materials, is largely 

reflective of their functional use. 





the proposed wind farm on the 

landscape resource. The iterative 

design process followed in 

developing the site layout is detailed 

in Section 5 of this Statement. 

Amendments were made during the 

design process in order to minimise 

intrusion on the landscape. 

Amendments included the reduction 

in the number of turbines and the 

relocation of turbines to minimise 

visibility from key sensitive receptors. 

Chapter 7: Traffic and Transport of 

the ES provides a comprehensive 

assessment of the predicted effects 

of the proposed wind farm on 

highway safety. On the basis of the 

transport assessment it is considered 

that the road network would be 

suitable for the traffic generated by 





Gardens and Designed the proposals and that a satisfactory 

Landscapes, Areas of Great 

Landscape Value and National 

access point onto the road network 

has been provided. 

Scenic Areas. 

Chapter 8: Noise, Chapter 9: 

• The development will not affect Landscape and Visual Impact 

the amenities of neighbouring Assessment and the Planning 

occupiers unacceptably by Statement provide a comprehensive 

reason of noise, visual assessment of the effect of the 

dominance, shadow flicker, proposed development on residential 

reflected light or other emission. amenity as a result of noise, visual 

• No wind turbines should dominance and shadow flicker. 

interfere with authorised aircraft 

activity or with the known 

regular flight paths of birds, 




particularly protected migratory account impacts on residential 

species. 

amenity, including through the 

adoption of buffer zones around 

residential properties. 



proposed wind farm took into account 

aviation constraints on the site. 

Amendments were also made during 

the design process in order to avoid 

Stirling Local 

Development 

Plan Draft 

Proposed Plan 

Primary Policy 1: Site Planning 

Requirements provides that 

developments of all scales should 

be designed and sited, not only 

with reference to their own 

specifications and requirements, 

but also in relation to the 

character and amenity of the 

place where they are located. 

Policy 1: Site Planning 

Requirements provides that all 

new development is required to 

contribute, in a positive manner, 

to the quality of the surrounding 

built and natural environment. All 

proposals are therefore expected 

to meet a range of criteria, 

including: 

• All new development should 

consider and respect the site’s 

topography, and any 

surrounding important 

landmarks, views or skylines. 

• The design of new development 

should be appropriate in terms 

of appearance, height, scale, 

massing, and should use 

materials, finishes and colours 

which complement those 

prevalent in the surrounding 

area. 

impacts on aviation radar systems. 



of the proposed wind farm is the 

result of a well though to out, 

landscape-led design process that is 

intended to respect the character of 

the site. It also provides details on 

how the layout and design of the 

proposed wind farm took into account 

impacts on residential amenity. 





the proposed wind farm on the 

landscape and visual resource from 

important landmarks, views and 

skylines. The iterative design 

process followed in developing the 

site layout is detailed in Section 5 of 

this Statement. Amendments were 

made during the design process in 

order to minimise visual impact from 

key sensitive receptors. 

Amendments included the reduction 

in the number of turbines and the 

relocation of turbines to minimise 

visibility from key sensitive receptors. 

The design of the individual wind 

turbines to be used, in terms of their 

scale, design and materials, is largely 

reflective of their functional use. 





Primary Policy 9: Historic Section 5 of this Statement provides 

Environment provides that the 

historic environment and, where 

appropriate, the settings of its 



account impacts on the historic and 

component features, will be built environment, in particular the 

safeguarded, conserved and setting of Sir John de Graham’s 

enhanced. 

Castle Scheduled Monument. 

Amendments were made including 

reducing the number of turbines in 

proximity of this scheduled 

Draft 

Supplementary 

Guidance 33 

Wind Farms & 

other Wind 

Turbines 

Policy 38: Protecting Special 

Landscapes provides that 

development proposals will only 

be approved within Local 

Landscape Areas where, amongst 

other criteria, the landscape 

character, scenic interest and 

qualities for which the area has 

been designated will not be 

adversely affected. 

Policy 41: Wind Turbines 

Locational Policy provides that, 

amongst other criteria, 

development will be permitted if 

they are of a scale, layout and 

nature such that adverse impacts, 

including cumulative impacts, are 

avoided or minimised to the 

satisfaction of the planning 

authority. 

Provides that new proposals will 

not normally be acceptable where 

they would result in a significant 

adverse effect upon amenity, 

including features of landscape, 

wildlife conservation and/or 

historic heritage, by reason of 

cumulative visual or ecological 

impact. 

SNH Locational and Design Guidance 

Monument. 



of the proposed wind farm sought to 

minimise as far as possible impacts 

on the landscape and visual 

resource. 





the proposed wind farm on landscape 

designations. 



of the proposed wind is the result of a 

well thought out process that sought 

to minimise, and where possible 

avoid, adverse impacts. 



of the proposed wind is the result of a 

well thought out process that sought 

to minimise, and where possible 

avoid, adverse impact upon 

environmental resources including 

ecology, ornithology, archaeology, 

telecommunication constraints, 

aviation and defence constraints, 

settlements and properties sensitive 

to noise and shadow flicker and other 

constraints identified through the EIA. 

4.13 The Scottish Natural Heritage guidance ‘Siting and Designing Windfarms in the Landscape’ 

(SNH, 2009) was taken into account during the design process. The Guidance seeks to ensure 

that wind farms are sited and designed well and identifies that the layout of a wind farm should 

relate to the specific characteristics of the landscape. It identifies that many landscape and 

visual sensitivities can be addressed through good design in wind farm layout. 




4.14 The Guidance indicates a number of variables relating to key characteristics of wind farm 

design which were taken into account in the design of the proposed wind farm. These include: 

• layout and number of turbines; 

• size, design and proportion of wind turbines; 

• route and design of access tracks; 

• location and design of temporary borrow pits and temporary construction compounds; 

• location and size of wind monitoring masts; 

• land management changes; and 

• layout and number of wind turbines. 

4.15 The importance of good design has been included as an integral part of the proposed wind 

farm so as to avoid, minimise and, where necessary, compensate for potential adverse effects. 

The specific landscape and visual design criteria used to inform the site design process for the 

proposed wind farm were as follows: 

• to establish a simple and compact form which has a unified appearance; 

• avoidance of outlier turbines and visual stacking; 

• relationship of the wind farm to the character, scale, pattern and composition of the 

landscape; 

• potential conflicts with sense of remoteness; 

• relationship of turbines with backdrop and horizon; and 

• relationship with existing wind farm turbine size, scale and layout. 

4.16 In addition to turbine layout the location of wind farm infrastructure was also considered in the 

design process. 

4.17 The integration of the wind farm in a landscape of commercial forestry and the potential for 

enhancement of the conifer plantations through diversification of species and structure forms 

part of the ongoing, long term management of the forestry by FCS. 




5 Design Evolution 

Turbine Form 

5.1 The design of the turbines to be used is largely reflective of their functional use. A range of 

wind turbine models will be suitable for the site, and the final choice of turbine will be 

dependent on the wind analysis, turbine economics and available technology at the time of 

construction. 

Turbine Colour 

5.2 It is proposed that the turbines would be finished in a pale matt grey/off-white colour with a 

semi-matt finish which is generally accepted as the most visually recessive in terms of 

minimising landscape impact. However, the final turbine colour would be determined in 

consultation with Stirling Council and other consultees. 

Turbine Size 

5.3 Larger numbers of small turbines compared with smaller numbers of larger turbines would 

generate similar yield but have different grouping and visual effects. Most notably a larger 

number of smaller turbines would lead to more frequent overlapping of turbine blades in views 

from the surroundings. It was therefore concluded that a smaller number of larger turbines 

was preferred to meet the design objectives for the site. 

Turbine Layout 

5.4 Although a number of different changes were made to the turbine layout, the finalised layout 

evolved over three main iterations as discussed below. 

Initial Design 

5.5 An initial design was produced on the basis of the detailed feasibility study carried out by PfR. 

The feasibility study took into account the following factors: 

• wind speed data information from the NOABL UK Wind Speed Database and from a 

preliminary wind analysis assessment undertaken by SgurrEnergy; 

• desk based review of environmental constraints including ecology, ornithology and 

cultural heritage and associated consultation with FCS; 

• consideration of likely grid connection options and arrangements; 

• preliminary turbine delivery route assessment; 

• preliminary consultation with Ofcom to identify fixed and microwave links and more 

detailed consultation with Cable and Wireless, Arqiva, Orange and JRC; 

• initial consultation with the Ministry of Defence (MOD), Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), 

NATS En-Route Limited (NERL) mapping tool and BAA/Glasgow Airport. An initial 

Aviation Impact Assessment was also carried out; 

• preliminary noise modelling and an initial ETSU-R-97 assessment; 

• preliminary consultation with the following infrastructure operators: Scottish Power, 

Scotland Gas Networks and the Health and Safety Executive; and 




• a preliminary Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) to 35 km. 

5.6 In addition, appropriate buffers were applied during the initial design in order to minimise, or 

where appropriate avoid, impacts on ecological constraints, watercourses, residential 

properties, recreational resources and infrastructure. Details of the constraints are provided in 

Table 3 below. 

Table 3 Constraints used for Initial Design 

Constraint 

Residential Receptors 

Core Path/Rights of 

Way 

Pipelines 

Major roads 

Minor roads 

Site boundary 

Electrical power lines 

Microwave links 

Watercourses (as 

identified on 1:50,000 

OS Map) 

Ancient Woodland 

Justification 

To reduce the likelihood of unacceptable noise impacts from the 

operation of the proposed turbines. 

Separation distance from Core Path/Rights of Way for safety 

reasons. 

Separation distance from pipelines for safety reasons. 

Separation distance from motorway, trunk and A class roads for 

safety reasons. 

Separation distance from minor roads for safety reasons 

Internal buffer between proposed site boundary and centre of turbine 

base location to account for blade oversail. 

Separation distance from 132kV power line for safety reasons. 

Separation distance in order to reduce the likelihood of adverse 

operational impacts. 

Separation distance to minimise the likelihood of adverse impacts on 

watercourses. 

Separation distance to avoid encroachment on Ancient Woodland. 

5.7 The initial design identified that the site could accommodate up to 77 turbines (see Figure 

DS3). At this stage, the site incorporated the whole of the Carron Valley Forest, including the 

area of forest to the south of the Carron Valley Reservoir. 

5.8 Following further consultation, the MOD identified that it would object to the initial design layout 

due to potential unacceptable interference impacts on the existence and operation of the 

Holehead radar station. It was also identified through further consultation with BAA and NATS 

that the initial design layout may result in potential unacceptable impacts on the Glasgow 

Primary Surveillance Radar and the Lowther Hill radar station. As a result, those turbines 

located in closest proximity to the Holehead radar station and those turbines within Line of 

Sight of the proposed Holehead, Glasgow and Lowther Hill radar stations were removed from 

the initial design layout. This resulted in a revised initial design layout of 37 turbines. 

5.9 A Landscape and Visual Feasibility Study was then undertaken for the revised initial design 

layout of 37 turbines. This study concluded that, on the basis of this revised initial design 

layout, that the proposed wind farm could be viewed as two separate wind farm when travelling 

on the B818 road and from key viewpoints. This results from the separation distances 

between turbines caused by the Carron Valley Reservoir. Given the key design strategy 

principle to produce a cohesive layout and one that is easy to understand, it was decided to 

remove the turbines to the south of the Carron Valley Reservoir. This decision to pursue the 

turbines to the north of the Carron Valley Reservoir at Cairnoch Hill rather than those to the 

south took into account, amongst other constraints, the location of existing operational and 

consented wind farms. 

Preliminary Design 

5.10 Focusing only on potential development at Cairnoch Hill, a detailed environmental and 

technical constraints plan of the site and its environs was produced. The constraints were 

identified through consultation with stakeholders, further desk based research and site visits 




and surveys. This included an Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey, ornithology surveys and 

cultural heritage site walkovers. The constraints used are set out in Table 4 below. 

Table 4 Constraints used for Preliminary Design 

Constraint 

Residential Receptors 

Core Path/Rights of Way 

Sir John de Graham’s 

Castle Scheduled 

Monument 


Watercourses (as 

identified on 1:25,000 

OS Map) 

B818 

Other Unclassified 

Roads 

Overground/underground 

services 

Justification 

To reduce the likelihood of unacceptable noise from the operation 

of the proposed turbines. 

Separation distance from Core Path/Rights of Way to avoid blade 

oversail. 

Avoidance of physical impacts on the Scheduled Monument 

Separation distance to avoid encroachment into and areas of 


Separation distance to minimise the likelihood of impacts on 

watercourses and sensitive habitats adjacent to watercourses. 

Minimisation of watercourse crossings. 

Separation distance from B road for safety reasons (1.5 x tip 

height). 

Separation distance from other unclassified roads. 

Separation distances from known services to avoid 

encroachment. 

5.11 The constraints plan was then used to determine the site area potentially suitable for 

development, referred to as the ‘developable area’. The developable area was considered to 

be land which may potentially be suitable to locate turbines and other wind farm components, 

and is shown in Figure DS2. 

5.12 On the basis of wind turbine specification and industry standard spacing, it was identified that 

the developable area was capable of potentially accommodating 24 turbines (see Figure DS3). 

A ZTV model was then run on this layout to identify theoretical visibility of the 24 turbines. On 

the basis of the ZTV, and in order to reduce visibility of the proposed wind farm from key 

sensitive viewpoints (including the Wallace Monument and Stirling Castle), the number of 

turbines was reduced from 24 to 16 (see Figure DS3). 

5.13 The project team held an internal design workshop to discuss the proposed 16 turbine 

preliminary layout. Several key design principles were applied at the design workshop in order 

to refine the proposed layout, including: 

• Landscape and Visual – ZTV models and wirelines from key visual receptors were run 

to assess and then modify the turbine layout in order to minimise visibility, particularly 

from key sensitive viewpoints such as Stirling Castle, as well as minimise turbine 

overlap and clustering. This process resulted in a number of iterations to the layout. 

Relevant visual issues associated with cultural heritage (including the setting of Sir 

John de Graham’s Castle Scheduled Monument) and recreation were also considered 

as part of this assessment. 

• Peat – The layout was designed and revised to avoid areas of deeper peat identified 

on the site through peat probing. 

• Site Infrastructure – Maximising the use of existing tracks within the site boundary and 

minimising new watercourse crossings. 




• Forestry – FCS preferred turbine locations were considered in line with the emerging 

amendment to the Cairnoch Hill Forest District Plan. This process enabled the 

creation of a layout sensitive to the requirements of ongoing forestry operations and 

responding to the Forest District Plan in relation to minimising unnecessary removal of 

coupes or compromising the wind firmness of remaining forest blocks. 

• Noise - The noise contour and noise modelling was rerun following each design 

iteration in order to identify any significant change to predicted effects on noise 

sensitive receptors. 

5.14 A number of further assessments and consultation were then carried out on the preliminary 16 

turbine layout (See Figure DS3) including: 

• a shadow flicker assessment was undertaken to ensure that no inhabited properties 

fell within the potential zone of shadow flicker; 

• an assessment of the wind resource was undertaken; 

• the MOD was re-consulted and confirmed they had no objection. 

5.15 A design was developed at this stage for the access tracks and supporting wind farm 

infrastructure, including the location of a permanent anemometer mast. These features were 

similarly sited and routed to avoid environmental constraints as well as optimising the use of 

slope for constructability and safety of construction traffic within the site. A buffer was also put 

in place around all infrastructure, including the provision of turbine keyholes, to indicate 

removal of forestry required specifically for the wind farm. The keyhole buffer reflects the 

requirements of the Natural England Guidance (Natural England, 2009) for protection of bats, 

which requires an offset of 50 m between the forest edge and the blade tip. 

Final Design 

5.16 After further EIA assessment, consultation with public and statutory/non-statutory bodies, and 

consideration of the formal Scoping Opinion received from Stirling Council in relation to the 

preliminary design, it was considered that a further design iteration was required. This related 

in particular to concerns raised by Historic Scotland in its scoping consultation response 

regarding the potential impacts on the setting on the Sir John de Graham’s Castle Scheduled 

Monument 

5.17 Following subsequent consultation with Historic Scotland a further design workshop was held 

to reconfigure the proposed turbine locations in order to minimise potential effects on the 

setting on the Sir John de Graham’s Castle Scheduled Monument. As a result, two of the 

turbines in the preliminary layout were removed, and the layout of the remaining turbines 

rearranged accordingly. 

5.18 Through the redesign process for the 14 turbines it became clear that the developable area 

could accommodate an additional turbine whilst still achieving the design objective of 

maximising the separation distance between the castle and the turbines and avoiding, as far as 

reasonably practicable, the positioning of turbines in the field of view looking down the Carron 

Valley, that being the view that most aids interpretation of why the castle was originally sited in 

this location. 

5.19 Wirelines of the proposed 15 turbine layout from the key visual receptors were then rerun to 

reassess and make minor alterations to turbine locations to further reduce impacts on the 

setting of the Scheduled Monument, and to confirm that there was no substantial change to the 

likely visual impacts predicted from the other sensitive receptors considered previously. In 




addition, revised noise modelling was undertaken to confirm that these predicted noise levels 

on noise sensitive receptors would still be acceptable. A further assessment of shadow flicker 

and wind resource was also carried out. 

5.20 This process confirmed that a revised 15 turbines layout would address the concerns raised by 

Historic Scotland in relation to the setting of the Scheduled Monument without materially 

affecting the significance of impacts on other environmental constraints. Consequently, the 

infrastructure design was revised, including relocating the permanent anemometer mast, and 

the planning application boundary was confirmed to reflect the minimum land take necessary 

to accommodate all infrastructure for the proposed wind farm. 

5.21 Further consultation on the finalised site layout was then carried out with Historic Scotland to 

present and explain the changes made and to seek views on the likely acceptability of the 

proposal as revised. The MOD was also re-consulted on the amended layout and reconfirmed 

no objection. 

5.22 This final 15 turbine layout was confirmed as the basis of the application as was provided to 

FCS to enable the proposed amendment to the Cairnoch Hill Forest District Plan to be updated 

to align with this layout. This amendment will be subject to the approval of FCS Central 

Scotland Conservancy. 

Consultation Responses 

5.23 As the proposed development constitutes a Major Development under the Town and Country 

(Hierarchy of Developments) Scotland Regulations 2009, PfR has carried out extensive, 

structured, pre-application discussions. A Pre-Application Consultation Report has been 

prepared to accompany this application which details the consultation that was undertaken, the 

comments made, and how these comments have influenced the development of the wind farm 

proposals. 




6 Design Solution 

6.1 The finalised layout as submitted to Stirling Council in the planning application for the Carron 

Valley Wind Farm is shown on Figure DS4. 

6.2 As described in Section 5, the overall aim of the design strategy for the proposed wind farm 

was to minimise, and where possible avoid, environmental constraints whilst maximising the 

potential energy production value of the site. Consideration has been given to a range of 

design issues including the turbine form, colour, size and locations as well as various technical 

and environmental requirements. Predicted environmental effects arising from the proposal 

have been mitigated as far as possible during the iterative layout design process. 

6.3 The proposed wind farm comprises 15 turbines of a 126 m maximum height to blade tip. It is 

inevitable, given the vertical presence of the turbines, that the proposed wind farm will have an 

impact on the landscape and visual resource. However, it is considered that these effects 

have been minimised as far as possible through the design process. 

6.4 The design approach has ensured that the proposed design solution reflects the feedback 

received through pre-application consultation with statutory consultees and careful 

consideration has been given to the design issues raised. 

6.5 It is considered that the finalised layout for the Carron Valley Wind Farm meets the objectives 

of the design strategy, comprising a technically and economically viable layout which fits with 

the landscape whilst minimising effects on the environment. 




7 Access 

Vehicle Access 

7.1 During the construction period, there will be three types of traffic accessing the site: 

• abnormal loads containing wind turbine components; 

• conventional HGVs to deliver and remove necessary equipment and materials to and 

from the site; and 

• the vans and cars of construction staff. 

7.2 Turbine component deliveries are likely to take place between months 7 and 14 with a three 

month break during months 10 to 12. During that period up to 90 abnormal loads of wind 

turbine components would be delivered to the proposed wind farm, including blades, tower 

sections, transformers and nacelles for the 15 turbines. Based on the construction programme 

this equates to a maximum of 14 abnormal load deliveries per month. 

7.3 It is estimated that 896 Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) will access the proposed wind farm 

over the entire construction period (1,792 two-way HGV movements). The construction 

breakdown and timeline shows that this equates to a maximum of three HGV arrivals per day 

(six two-way HGV movements per day). 

7.4 Over the entire construction period, it is expected that the construction process will require a 

total of 4,390 construction worker / van / LGV arrivals (8,780 two way vehicle movements). It 

is expected that month seven will be the peak traffic generating month of the construction 

process, during which time it is expected that the construction process will require 325 

construction worker / van / LGV arrivals. Based on a five day working week this equates to 

approximately 15 arrivals per day during this period (30 two-way light vehicle movements a 

day). 

7.5 It is expected that the wind turbine components would travel to the proposed wind farm from 

Grangemouth. If Grangemouth port is not available then an alternative port could be used at 

Rosyth. The route from Grangemouth would route onto the M9 at Junction 6 from the A904 to 

Junction 9, turning onto the A872 and then the B818 to the site. All abnormal load deliveries 

would be undertaken outside of peak traffic hours in order to prevent any disruption or delay 

during these periods. 

7.6 Approximately 9.4 km of access track will be required to access the wind turbines, of which 

7.5 km is existing forestry track to be upgraded and 1.9 km is new track. Turning points are 

provided in order for vehicles to manoeuvre. In order to access the site form the B818, a new 

access junction would be provided. The proposed access junction drawing is shown on Figure 

DS5. 

7.7 Full details related to vehicle access are provided in ES Chapter 7: Traffic and Transport. 

Public Access 

7.8 In accordance with the Land Reform Act 2003, chapter 2 part 6(1) (g), general public access 

rights will need to be suspended within the construction working area during periods of 

construction and maintenance for health and safety reasons. Where and when possible, 

alternative routes will be provided to areas out with the construction working area. There are 




no designated public Rights of Way within the site boundary. The proposals will not directly 

affect access to any designated public Rights of Way. 

7.9 During operation of the proposed wind farm, access tracks will remain open to the public for 

informal access, improving recreational access in the wider area. These tracks will be 

accessible for people with disabilities. Furthermore, it is proposed that once operational, PfR 

will contribute an agreed specified sum towards continued delivery of the FCS Forest 

Experience and Interpretation Plan. Through this mechanism, income from the operation of 

the proposed wind farm will be provided to FCS for use in developing access and recreational 

opportunities as well as for maintaining and enhancing existing access and recreational 

resources within the Carron Valley. 




8 References 

Clackmannanshire Council (2002), Clackmannanshire and Stirling Structure Plan (2002) Available at 

http://www.clacksweb.org.uk/property/structureplan/chapter1/1 

Forestry Commission Scotland (2009a), The National Forest Estate Strategic Plan 2009- 2013, 

Forestry Commission Scotland. Available at: 

http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/StrategyPlanInteractivePDFreduced.pdf/$FILE/StrategyPlanInteractiveP 

DFreduced.pdf 

Forestry Commission Scotland (2009b), Climate Change Action Plan 2009 – 2011, Forestry 

Commission Scotland. Available at: http://www.forestry.gov.uk/ccapscotland 

Forestry Commission Scotland (2009c), Scottish Lowlands Forest District Strategic Plan 2009 – 2013, 

Forestry Commission Scotland. Available at: 

http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/ScottishLowlandsIPDF.pdf/$FILE/ScottishLowlandsIPDF.pdf 

Scottish Executive (2006), The Scottish Forestry Strategy, Forestry Commission Scotland. Available 

at: http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/SFS2006fcfc101.pdf/$FILE/SFS2006fcfc101.pdf 

Scottish Natural Heritage (2009), Siting and Designing Windfarms in the Landscape. Available at: 

http://www.snh.gov.uk/docs/A317537.pdf 

Stirling Council (1999), Stirling Council Local Plan. Available at: 

http://www.stirling.gov.uk/services/planning-and-the-environment/planning-and-buildingstandards/local-and-statutory-development-plans/local-plan-general-information 

Stirling Council (2007), Stirling Council Local Plan First Alteration. Available at: 

http://www.stirling.gov.uk/services/planning-and-the-environment/planning-and-buildingstandards/local-and-statutory-development-plans/local-plan-general-information/local-plan-1stalteration 

Stirling Council (2011), Supplementary Guidance Renewable Energy. Available at: 

http://www.stirling.gov.uk/__documents/planning/planning/strategic-environmental-assessment/windfarms/adopted-policies-_and_-guidance.pdf 

Stirling Council (2012), Stirling Council Local Development Plan. Available at: 

http://www.stirling.gov.uk/services/business-and-trade/planning-and-building-standards/local-andstatutory-development-plans/local-development-plan 




Figures 

Figure DS1 - Site Location Plan 

Figure DS2 - Developable Area 

Figure DS3 - Layout Design Evolution 

Figure DS4 - Planning Application Site Layout 

Figure DS5 - Site Access Arrangements 



265000 

270000 

275000 

Legend 

Application boundary 

685000 

685000 

690000 

690000 

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265000 

Contains Ordnance Survey data © Crown copyright, All rights reserved. 2011 Licence number 0100031673 

270000 

275000 

680000 

± 

Project name: Carron Valley Wind Farm 

Title : Site Location Plan 

Date: 02/05/2012 

Created by : KAG 

Scale @ A3 1:50,000 

0 0.25 0.5 1 1.5 2 

Kilometres 

REV: - A3 Figure : DS1

Legend 

Indicative site boundary 


50m inner buffer 

Indicative developable area 

!H Proposed turbine locations 

(15T revG 09/03/12) 

1 

2 

!H !H 

5 

!H 

3 

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4 

!H 

6 

!H 

8 

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!H 

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± 


Title : Developable Area 

Date: 02/05/2012 


Scale @ A3 1:20,000 

0 0.125 0.25 0.5 0.75 1 

Kilometres 

REV: - A3 Figure : DS2 

Contains Ordnance Survey data © Crown copyright, All rights reserved. 2011 Licence number 0100031673

77 76 

!( !( 72 69 

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75 74 !( 

68 

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Legend 


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Initial Design - 77 turbines 

Intermediate Design (a) - 24 turbines 

Location: W:\2069SAE - Carron Valley Wind Farm\Technical\Graphics\CAD\2069sae_126 revA - Layout Evolution (D&A).mxd 

2 

2 

1 

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Scale 1:40,000 Scale 1:40,000 

Intermediate Design (b) - 16 turbines 

Intermediate Design (c) - 16 turbines 

Contains Ordnance Survey data © Crown copyright, All rights reserved. 2011 Licence number 0100031673 

Scale 1:40,000 

Final Design - 15 turbines 

1 2 

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Title : Layout Design Evolution 

Date: 17/07/2012 


Scale as shown 

REV: A A3 Figure : DS3

Legend 

!A 

1 

2 

!( !( 

!( pp !( 

!( 

Application boundary 

!( Proposed turbine locations 

(15T revG 09/03/12) 

!A 

Proposed permanent anemometer 

mast location (268635,686533) 

Turbine keyhole (77.5m radius) 

Existing access track 

Proposed access track 

Proposed crane pad / laydown areas 

Proposed control building 

5 

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construction compound 

Proposed met mast laydown area 

Potential Borrow Areas (A - C) 

Proposed passing place (pp) 

Indicative stream crossing (x1-x6) 

!( Crossing Point 

Buffer Zone * 

Location: W:\2069SAE - Carron Valley Wind Farm\Technical\Graphics\CAD\2069sae_127 - Planning Application Site layout (D&A).mxd 

!( 

pp 

7 

!( 

!( 

x1 

!( 

10 

!( 

!( 

pp 

!( 

9 

!( 

!( 

!( 

!( 12 

!( 

!( 11 

!( 

pp 

!( 

!( 

14 

!( 

!( 

!( 

13 

!( 

!( 

x5a 

x5!( 

!( 

!( pp 

15 

!( 

!( 

A 

x6 

* Buffer zone based on: 

77.5m radius buffer on turbines 

25m radius buffer on anemometer mast 

25m corridor on the access tracks 

25m buffer on borrow areas and substation 

5m buffer on temporary construction compound 

Turbine Easting Northing Elevation (mAOD) 

1 268876 686635 270 

2 269284 686620 278 

3 269435 686263 318 

4 268879 685937 313 

5 268500 686237 259 

6 269029 685634 326 

7 268889 685075 244 

8 269312 685442 334 

9 269540 685158 319 

10 269264 684700 256 

11 269746 684857 316 

12 269584 684400 252 

13 270067 684217 245 

14 270025 684630 278 

15 270453 684839 277 


Title : 

Date: 25/07/2012 

Planning Application Site layout 

Scale @ A3 1:20,000 

0 0.125 0.25 0.5 0.75 1 

Kilometres 

± 


REV: - A3 Figure : DS4 

Contains Ordnance Survey data © Crown copyright, All rights reserved. 2011 Licence number 0100031673

Notes: 

1. If this drawing has been received electronically it is the recipient's 

responsibility to print the document to the correct scale. 

2. All dimensions are in millimetres unless stated otherwise. It is 

recommended that information is not scaled off this drawing. 

3. This drawing should be read in conjunction with all other relevant 

drawings and specifications. 

4. Swept path analysis based on Ordnance Survey mapping. 

KEY 

Indicative alignment of existing footway 

Indicative edge of carriageway 

Indicative visibility splays 

Location: P:\JNY7380 - Cairnoch Hill Wind Farm\Highways\Drawings\JNY7380-05 Rev A Site Access Arrangements_FINAL.dwg 

Crown Copyright, All rights reserved. RPS Group license number 0100039993 


Title: 

Date: 13/04/2012 

Site Access Arrangements 

Scale @A3 1:500 

0 5 10 15 20 25 

m 

JNY7380-05 

REV: A 

A3 

Created by: DA 

Figure : DS5

P 

Station House 12 Melcombe Place London NW1 6JJ t: +44 (0)207 170 7000 f: +44 (0)207 170 7020 e: info@pfr.co.uk 

www.pfr.co.uk 

Partnerships Partnerships for Renewables for Renewables Limited is a private Limited limited is a private company limited company Registered in Registered England and in England Wales, number and Wales, 06526742 number 06526742 Registered at Registered 4th Floor, at Dorset Station House, 27-45 12 Melcombe Stamford Street, Place, London, NW1 SE1 9PY 6JJ

ES Design and Access Statement - Partnerships for Renewables

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