Turbine plan unveiled at wild goat cull site near Newcastleton

An 18-turbine wind farm is being planned on hills where wild goats are being culled near Newcastleton in the Borders.

Oxygen Conservation said the goat cull was to preserve habitats – but it has led to campaigners submitting a petition to the Scottish government demanding better protection.

Last week, Low Carbon UK revealed it wanted to erect 720ft (220m) turbines on part of the area now owned by Oxygen Conservation – with the closest turbine being less than two miles (3.2km) from the village.

Scoping requests have been submitted to the government’s Energy Consents Unit and Scottish Borders Council.

The company behind the turbine plans said they would help to meet Scotland’s renewable energy targets.

A battery energy storage system (BESS) has also be included as part of the proposals.

A full study of the potential impact on the landscape, environment and wildlife in the area will be undertaken before a full planning application is brought forward.

A campaign was launched earlier this year to protect an ancient herd of wild goats in the area.

Oxygen Conservation said there had been a “massive increase” in the goat population since 2023 and it needed to reduce numbers to allow trees to grow.