RES, the world’s largest independent renewable energy company, has submitted an application to the Scottish Government’s Energy Consents Unit (ECU) for the Blair Hill Wind Farm, to be located north of Newton Stewart in Dumfries and Galloway.
If approved, it is estimated that the 14-turbine project would be capable of generating enough electricity to power more than 115,000 homes every year
The plans are expected to bring significant benefits to the local community in Newtown Stewart and the wider Dumfries and Galloway region, including £17 million inward investment during development and construction, and a further £70 million of economic activity linked to operations and maintenance work.
The project is also estimated to generate up to £55 million in business rates to Dumfries and Galloway Council, alongside a tailored community benefit package of more than £23 million.
Unlocking the site’s potential
The land earmarked for the site is archaeologically rich but not currently accessible to the public at large, which has been raised as an important issue for the local community.
As a result, RES is proposing a signposted trail and interpretation boards to enable local people to enjoy the site and learn about its history.
Opportunities for local people
RES is also proposing a package of skills development opportunities for archaeologists at Blair Hill Wind Farm, including working with universities and colleges to offer field schools for archaeology students during the construction phase of the project.
RES is also proposing to fund a work experience or apprenticeship placement within the contractor fieldwork team, allowing a local person to gain valuable experience in the archaeology sector.
The company is exploring options to appoint and fund a Heritage Ranger to implement the above programme and engage in community work in connection with the site’s archaeological heritage.
Committed to enhancing biodiversity
RES is dedicated to enhancing the natural environment in the areas where they operate, ensuring that they are left in a better state than they were found.
As part of RES’s Section 36 application, they have submitted an outline Biodiversity Enhancement Management Plan that includes measures to restore peatland, create broadleaved woodland and enhance acid grassland on the site.
Living green roofs are also proposed within the substation compound. These habitat improvements would support a richer and more diverse mix of species on site.
Find out more
All information, including all planning application documents, are available to view on the project’s website – blairhill-windfarm.co.uk
RES are also hosting two information events:
March 24, 2025, 3-8pm at County Buildings, Wigtown, DG8 9JH
March 25, 2025, 3-8pm at McMillan Hall, Dashwood Square Newton Stewart DG8 6EQ