LOCAL Community councils have joined forces to form a working group which aims to become a dedicated single Trust for wind farm developments and future community benefits in the area.

The 9CC Group, comprised of the community councils of New Cumnock, Dalmellington, Auchinleck, Cumnock, Netherthird, Cronberry - Lugar & Logan (CLL), Patna, Drongan - Rankinston & Stair (DRS) and Ochiltree & Skares, was established in late 2019.

The aim is to ensure fair distribution of windfarm community benefits funds borne out of developments such as Over Hill, North Kyle, Pencloe and Greenburn wind farms.

The organisation considers itself a prime point of contact to discuss and agree a fair and democratic method of allocation, distribution, management and administration of community benefit from consented future wind farm developments that will be located within the Cumnock and Doon Valley area.

And with the community benefit from new and additional wind farm developments in the area estimated to amount to over £40million over the life span of the developments, residents are now being encouraged to have their say in a once in a

lifetime chance to transform the area.

People who live, work or visit the Cumnock and Doon Valley are urged to share their views about what the priorities should be for Cumnock and Doon Valley that can be funded by substantial sums of windfarm monies, as well as other external investment, to make a direct difference to their community.

To do so, complete the Community Consultation Survey which can be found at: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/9CC_Community_Survey.

Due to COVID 19, a variety of methods are being used to gather locals’ views, including the survey, social media, and virtual open meetings.

For more information, visit the 9CC Strategic Area Plan Facebook page 5 and take part in the conversation.

If you want more information about the consultation, please contact Lynda at Community Enterprise email lynda@communityenterprise.co.uk or phone 01506 862227.