COUNCILLORS opted to continue a motion for the application to erect two wind turbines near Patna.

The Council’s Planning Committee heard a proposal by REG Windpower to contstruct the two turbines at Knockshinnoch Farm south of the B730.

Despite recommendations to refuse permission, councillors chose to continue the motion to a later date until it is revealed whether Prestwick Airport withdraws its objection.

At a hearing before the Planning Committee, Iain Wham of Low Ashentree Cottage voiced his opposition.

Mr Wham’s property is located less than 700 meters from the proposed turbines - less than the 900 meter guideline set out.

The applicant wants to position the site 2km south west of Rankinston.

One of the main objections to the project is the close proximity to the Dunstonhill open cast site that locals already feel blights the landscape.

The development proposed the use of the existing access to Dunstonhill with proposed upgrading works from the B730. The applicant also revealed that the construction process could take up to eight months with a 25 year operational period thereafter.

When urged to reveal the benefits the project would bring to the area it was revealed that as little as three full time jobs would be created following construction.

The Council’s Environmental Health Service as well as Ayrshire Roads Alliance had no objections to the proposal.

Objections came from Prestwick Airport - on the grounds that the turbines would be situated on the edge of its Air Traffic Control Zone downwind from its main runway and that they would be fully visible from to the primary surveillance radar. The West of Scotland Archaeology Service also objected due to the detrimental effect it could potentially have on the setting of Carline Knowe Cairn.

Patna Community Council have come out in favour of the proposed project, with members attending the hearing a speaking on behalf of REG. They deem that the plans would not negatively impact the local area. Following the collapse of Scottish Coal the village has been trying to get back on its feet and they feel that the wind turbines could be the boost it needs.