A PROPOSED wind farm development near Patna has been given the thumbs down from the Scottish Government.

The proposed scheme would impact on historic sites according to Scottish ministers.

The 17 turbine, Keirs Hill wind farm proposal was referred to the Scottish Government for a decision.

Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Jobs and Fair Work, Keith Brown this week refused planning consent for the planned project south of Patna.

Ministers considered the application fully, following a public inquiry.

When considering the Keirs Hill wind farm proposal by RES UK and Ireland Ltd Ministers decided that the proposed scheme is not acceptable because of the height of the turbines in the proposed location, as well as the impact on the nearby houses and on historic sites, notably the Waterside ironworks complex.

Ministers concluded that on balance the impacts of the proposed development would not be outweighed by any wider benefit in respect of energy generation and climate change mitigation.

Mr Brown said: “The Scottish Government’s policy on wind farms strikes a careful balance between maximising Scotland’s huge green energy potential and protecting some of our most scenic landscape and wild land area.

“We have been clear that wind farms can only be built in the right places and Scottish Planning Policy sets out rigorous steps to ensure wind farms are sited appropriately and sensitively.

“I have considered this application fully and recognise the efforts made by the applicant to mitigate the potential impacts of the development. However, I have refused permission due to the landscape and visual impact the project would have, including the effect on residential and historic sites in the area."

RES UK and Ireland Ltd first logged a planning application to East Ayrshire Council (EAC) back in November 2013.

EAC objected to the proposal in August 2014.

The energy firm slammed East Ayrshire Council’s decision to formally object to their proposals.

South Ayrshire Council also objected to the proposal.

In August 2014 a spokesperson said: “Keirs Hill Wind Farm has the potential to bring around £4.5 Million into the local economy, through investment and jobs during the construction phase.

“In addition, RES is offering a Community Benefit Fund of over £100,000 per annum throughout the project’s lifetime. Local residents and businesses would also be offered an annual discount off their electricity bills through RES’ innovative Local Electricity Discount Scheme (LEDS).

“The Council’s decision will create significant additional costs and delays, for all parties, in the delivery of the proposed 17 turbine development which has received no objections from Scottish Natural Heritage, SEPA or Historic Scotland and has significant support within the local community".