Wind farm tracks now officially open to the public, developer says

SSE Renewables has confirmed that the Viking wind farm tracks are now formally open to the public – around a year and a half after the turbines first went live.

After the 103-turbine wind farm in Shetland’s Central Mainland became operational in 2024, the developer had said the tracks had not officially opened to the public due to final construction activity taking place.

In recent times this has not stopped some people from enjoying walks at the site anyway, but a spokesperson for SSE Renewables has now confirmed that the tracks are formally open.

Advice has also been provided around access to the wind farm.

It has been described as a “working wind farm” which means there will be work ongoing across the site.

“Please look out for safety notices and exclusion zones and always observe their instruction,” the access advice said.

“Our first priority to keep everyone on the Viking Energy wind farm site safe.”

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Folk are also encouraged to use the new carparks created as part of the development – one near the Halfway House at Sandwater, and the one south of Voe which is still under construction.

The developer said non-authorised vehicle access on the wind farm tracks is “strictly prohibited”.

It also pointed to the Scottish Outdoor Access code, which encourages people to respect the interests of other people, care for the environment and trade responsibility for your own actions.

The access advice added: “The site covers a large area of land and weather conditions can vary greatly – preparation is key.

“Plan your route and be realistic about what you can manage. It is also important to ensure you have warm waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear and that you stay on the access tracks.

“Mobile phone reception varies on site and cannot be relied upon so it is also helpful to let someone know where you are and when to expect you back.”