Responding to the news that the Scottish Ministers are minded to refuse the Lewis Wind Power windfarm application, the Vice-Convener of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, Mr Angus Campbell, said:

“This is a bitter blow for the Western Isles. An opportunity to help us revitalise our economy has been lost. However at least we now know the cost of environmental designations to the Western Isles – 400 construction jobs, 70 jobs at Arnish, 70 jobs associated directly with the windfarm, £6m per annum in community benefit, £4m in rental payments.  

The Comhairle will now engage with the Scottish Government to discuss their plans for how the economy of the Western Isles can be developed. They must make clear what their vision is for the islands. Are we to become an environmental museum? Is any development at all to be allowed in the Western Isles?

Those who opposed this development must now come forward and outline their proposals for the regenerating the economy of the Western Isles”.

Nigel Scott
Communications Officer
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar

Tel: 01851 709389 (Work)
Tel: 07884 236103 (Mobile)
email: nscott@cne-siar.gov.uk