PLANS for a 43m wind turbine situated in woodland near Highdykes are expected to be approved at a council planning committee meeting next week. Elected members are expected to green light proposals for the erection of a single wind turbine – with a maximum hub height of 30m and a top blade tip height of 43m – and associated works, including construction of an access track and sub-station, at land east of Broomhill Wood, Bonhill by Harris Smith. The application is subject to report because it relates to a proposal which ‘raises issues of local significance’. Around 28 objections, including Bonhill residents, have been submitted in relation to the application. In summary, they claim the turbine will be an ‘eyesore’; the development will have a potential adverse impact on tourism in the national park; the project would have a detrimental impact on wildlife; and the turbine may affect local house prices. However, the council is expected to approve the plans subject to the conclusion of a legal agreement to ensure that a suitable financial bond is put in place to cover restoration liabilities for the site and the community benefit contribution. The report concluded: “The proposed wind turbine complies with both the adopted and emerging local plans as well as relevant government guidance. The sloping landscape and urban character in the vicinity of the site mitigates against the visual impact of the turbine on the Kilpatrick Hills or Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park and there would be no adverse cumulative impacts. “The distance from the nearest residential property and intervening tree coverage is sufficient to ensure that there would be no unacceptable impact on residential properties. The legal agreement will ensure that a suitable financial bond is put in place to cover future restoration liabilities for the site and to address the community benefit contribution.” The planning committee meets on Wednesday, March 25.