Planners have recommended approving a green energy scheme on the Balmoral Estate in Aberdeenshire.

This week, the Cairngorms National Park Authority's (CNPA) Planning Committee will meet to discuss proposals for a 2MW run of river hydroelectric scheme and associated infrastructure on the River Muick, near Birkhall, Ballater.


The planning application seeks permission to develop an intake structure, buried pipeline, a powerhouse and access tracks on the proposed site 7km south-west of Ballater on the west bank of the River Muick.

In her report, Planning Officer Emma Wilson outlines the various issues in relation to impacts on the landscape and ecology, but proposes an approval for the project with various conditions attached to any consent to ensure a high quality scheme and to guarantee effective mitigation measures.

The CNPA Planning Committee will meet in Nethy Bridge on Friday, 29 June.

(LM/MH)