Viking compound car park application could end up at planning committee after objection

A PROPOSAL for a public car park at the north compound of the Viking Energy wind farm site near Voe could be determined by councillors on the SIC’s planning committee following an objection from Delting Community Council (DCC).

DCC has formally objected to the plans from SSE Renewables, with its members wanting to see the access to the site to be moved further down the hill to make more use of use of the old road.

Community councillors have also sought reassurances that the speed limit in the area will be lowered when the car park becomes operational.

As consultee DCC has formally objected, if the issues are not addressed by planning conditions, and planning staff recommend that the application is approved, then the final decision will lay with councillors on the planning committee.

The development – which would include a picnic area – has been proposed by SSE Renewables to as a way of giving people better access to the wind farm’s tracks once they are open to the public.

The wind farm is set to go live later this year and once it is operational people will be able to walk and cycle along its many tracks, as well as ride horses.

The application has attracted objections from a number of members of the public, while the idea of having a car park in the area has also raised eyebrows among some on social media.

In a previous newsletter on Shetland’s energy projects, SSE Renewables said: “North compound located at Scars Quilse was previously utilised as a batching plant compound.

“It is proposed a section of this area will be redeveloped into a carpark with picnic area.

“Providing additional recreation facilities, and offering easier access for the community and visitors, to the wind farm tracks in the north of the site and Mid Kames ridge area.”

A permanent car park is also planned near to the new Sandwater Road further south. No consent is needed for that development because it was part of planning conditions.

It will be located close to the B9075 and A970 junction.