I pray we all seriously consider our responsibility

I was very disappointed that Fergus Ewing granted planning permission to the Viking Energy wind farm without even calling for a public enquiry despite all the controversy and division.

I can imagine that SNH were under huge pressure during the prolonged period of negotiations and discussions and so I am very grateful to them for all their time, hard work and effort they have given to the proposal.  I think their patience, commitment and integrity should be applauded by all.

It was very disappointing that VE were not willing or were not able to make all the necessary changes to the plans and produce all the needed evidence to satisfy SNH.  I find it shocking that Fergus Ewing and so many councillors chose to ignore the recommendations and the many environmental concerns of both the SNH and the SIC planning department. 

How can so many  views and concerns of SNH, RSPB, Shetland Amenity Trust, Shetland Bird Group, SIC Planning Department, The John Muir Trust, Sustainable Shetland and the many individual objectors be disregarded so easily without being addressed.

I pray that when we go to the polls, we will all seriously consider our responsibility to steward the environment.

The next council will have to make many decisions regarding the environment as Shetland will be sought after by renewable energy projects.  It will be important that the next council will have people with good environmental knowledge, a willingness to listen and address concerns, discernment and integrity when deciding what can and what cannot be allowed to be developed. 

Owen Barton
New Street
Scalloway