The plans for the 26-turbine Lethans Community Wind Farm, situated east of New Cumnock, were submitted to the Scottish Government’s Energy Consents and Deployment Unit and East Ayrshire Council.

Developer, Banks Renewables, claim that the project could generate £69 million for the local economy over 25 years.

Following a period of public consultation, the proposed development has received positive feedback following two public consultations in New Cumnock and Kelloholm in August 2014.

The Hamilton based employer has been praised for its partnership approach to the proposals by working with members of the local community at each stage of the planning process.

This has meant that if approved, the electricity generated from the wind farm will provide funding to deliver tailored benefits to directly fit the needs of the communities including helping to support their recently launched action plans.

Construction costs are valued at an estimated £105 million with a potential £21 million to form local contracts, including a variety of services. If approved, Banks Renewables has also planned for a community partnership agreement, which could see the local community benefiting from 2.5-per cent of the wind farm revenues.

This commitment would be underwritten with a commitment to contribute £5,000 per MW installed capacity, which has the potential to generate approximately £15 million over the 25 year lifetime of the project.

The firm is also offering the community the opportunity to purchase up to five-per cent stake in Lethans Wind Farm, in addition to the Community Revenue Share. Having an annual revenue stream over the 25 years lifetime of the wind farm presents an opportunity for long lasting, positive change to be affected.

Colin Anderson, director at Banks Renewables, said: “We have fostered strong relationships with neighbouring communities to the proposed Lethans Wind Farm over the past two and a half years.

“As such I am confident that our finalised proposals truly reflect the views of local residents and have the potential to make a real and meaningful impact on the projects identified by them in their local action plans.

“This means that if the development is approved, not only will it create sustainable energy but it will also open up funding that will be directed into local causes and employment opportunities which will help with the overall regeneration of the area.” Mr Anderson added: “The landscape of this remote area means that the majority of the wind turbines would be hidden from view.” Our mapping research has also shown it to be a great site in terms of the wind resource and therefore would be an extremely efficient wind farm capable of producing a great deal of energy from each turbine.”