Scottish Borders councillors advised to object to Leithenwater wind farm

Scottish Borders Council members are expected to be recommended to formally object to the proposed Leithenwater Wind Energy Hub. The project involves up to 13 turbines, with tip heights reaching a maximum of 200 meters, located on land north of Glentress Forest in Innerleithen.

A report presented to the Planning and Building Standards Committee highlights significant conservation and landscape concerns. Specifically, officials noted “insufficient information” to guarantee that the development would not harm golden eagle populations, particularly juveniles.

The site is situated on elevated ground above the Tweed Valley at the western edge of the Moorfoot Hills. The report also warns that the scale of the turbines could erode the natural character of the Tweed Valley uplands and appear “visually overbearing” from sensitive locations, including the Tweedsmuir Uplands National Scenic Area.

While the Scottish Borders Council acts as a consultee, the final decision rests with the Scottish Government’s Energy Consents Unit. If the council's objection is upheld, it may trigger a public local inquiry into the application.