Forthbank Wind Energy Development - Partnerships for Renewables

Forthbank Wind Energy Development
Viewpoint 18: Cowie
Figure Number: VP-18
Grid Reference NS 839 894 Elevation 44m AOD
Bearing 74º Direction of View: North east
LCT: Lowland Hill Fringes LCU: East Touch Fringe
Distance to nearest 5.42km
Existing Cumulative Braes of Doune WF
proposed turbine:
visibility:
Craigengelt WF
Location:
The viewpoint is taken from the public open space near to the Community Centre in Cowie. The viewpoint is situated
5.42km to the south west of the site at an elevation of 44m AOD.
Context:
Cowie is one of the three 'Eastern Villages' of Stirling Council Area, Cowie is situated to the southeast of Bannockburn.
The B9124 goes through Cowie and joins with A91 to the west close to Bannockburn. It also allows access to Gowie
from the south where it links with the A9. Cowie is also accessible by the minor road which joins with the A905 to the
north.
Receptor Type:
This viewpoint is selected as being representative of Cowie residents.
Existing View:
It is an open panorama with the Ochil Hills dominating the skyline. The elevated position allows views over the
northern part of Cowie’s built up area forming a distinct foreground of the view. The River Forth Floodplain is hidden
behind the buildings and the rolling landform.
On the left side of the view the Ochil Hills rise direct above the rooftops of Cowie, only a strip of vegetation is visible
between the hills and the roofs.
On the right side of the view the horizon is further away. Some peaks of the Uplands rise above the Lowland Hills and
the Lowland Valley Fringes. This ridge of low rounded hills with large dark areas of plantations on top of it runs to the
east of Clackmannan.
The gently rising King’s Seat Hill (with Clackmannan Tower on top of it) is distinguishable as its open non-vegetated
foothill contrasts with the surrounding dark plantations.
The visibility of the proposal site:
The proposal site is not visible from the viewpoint. The River Forth water and floodplain are not visible from this
viewpoint. The location of the proposal site is indicated by the King’s Seat Hill which can be seen above the proposal
site..
Visual detractors:
The 380kV Forth Crossing next to the Alloa Works’ chimneys. Cowieshall Quarry is seen in the right side of the view.
Landscape Designations:
None identified
Viewpoint Sensitivity to the proposed wind energy development: :
The landscape sensitivity of this location is considered to be low.
The visual sensitivity of this location is considered to be medium.
November 2010 Chapter 9 Page 55
Copyright Partnerships for Renewables Development Co. Ltd 2010 ©