PROPOSED SHETLANDS WINDFARM COULD PUT BREEDING SEASON SQUEEZE ON RARE SPECIES

Red-throated diver - species at risk. Photo: RSPB

THE future looks uncertain for the breeding populations of red-throated divers and whimbrel in The Shetlands.

Onshore windfarm developer Viking Energy say a proposed habitat management plan will enhance prospects for both species, but RSPB Scotland believes a scheme for installation of 103 turbines will put them at risk.

The project, which has been given the planning go-ahead, is a joint venture by electricity giants SSE and Shetland Charitable Trust.

Last month, Viking announced its intention to increase the  maximum tip height from 145m to 155m with a corresponding increase in the turbine hub height from 90m to 95m.

Artist's impression of how the turbines will look. Image: Viking Energy

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