Forthbank Wind Energy Development - Partnerships for Renewables

Forthbank Wind Energy Development
15.3.43 Employment opportunities will also arise during the de-commissioning process.
15.3.44 The European Wind Energy Association has found that 15.1 jobs are created in the EU for
every MW installed, and 0.4 jobs are created per MW of cumulative capacity in operations and
maintenance and other activities 18 . On this basis, the proposed 10MW would result in the
creation of approximately 155 jobs for the construction and operational periods of the proposed
wind energy development.
Assessment of Effects
15.3.45 The increase in employment as a result of the proposed wind energy development is therefore
considered to be a moderate positive effect during construction and a minor positive effect
during operation.
15.3.46 In addition to the creation of employment opportunities, PfR believes that the proposed wind
energy development should have benefits for the community and will be looking for various
options to ensure that the proposed wind energy development brings as much benefit to the
community as possible if planning permission is granted.
Mitigation
15.3.47 There are no significant adverse effects, and therefore no requirement for related mitigation
measures. As far as practicable, local companies will be engaged in undertaking proposed
works ensuring as much local employment benefit as possible.
15.4 Tourism and Recreation
Approach and Methods
15.4.1 This section provides an assessment of the effects of the proposed wind energy development
on tourism and recreation – this incorporates findings from the Landscape and Visual
Assessment (as presented in Chapter 9), and data on tourist facilities within the vicinity, as well
as consideration of recreational activities such as walking, golfing and fishing.
15.4.2 A desktop review was undertaken of a range of published documents and internet based
information.
15.4.3 The effect of the proposed wind energy development in terms of whether it would discourage
return visits due to the overall landscape and visual impact on the area has been assessed
using conclusions from the landscape and visual assessment, and from a series of surveys
carried out on behalf of tourist organisations.
15.4.4 Scottish Planning Policy recognises that tourism is an important part of the economy, but also
that sensitive siting of wind farms can minimise adverse impact, meaning tourism and
renewable energy developments can be compatible.
November 2010 Chapter 15 Page 10
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