Lewis Energy Proposals |
11 October 2005 |
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Nicol Stephen MSP 11 October 2005 Dear Minister LEWIS RENEWABLE ENERGY PROPOSALS For some time now I am sure you will be aware of the fact that the majority of debate surrounding the large-scale wind farm developments has concentrated on the perceived impact on the environment and the landscape. However, I would like to take this opportunity to highlight that, when consulting with community groups across the Western Isles, the subject which consistently features highest on the agenda is that of roads and transport. Complaints regarding the condition of the roads, the lack of footpaths and of street lighting, and the inadequate provision of dedicated cycle ways are very common. Although many millions have been invested by the Comhairle on this type of infrastructure in the thirty years since this inception, required as a result of chronic under-investment by its predecessor, there remains a huge gap between the funding required to bring the islands up to the standard taken for granted by many mainland communities and the resources available to the Comhairle. With regard to the Spinal Route and the primary links to these rural communities, a reasonable standard could be double width carriageways built on high quality foundations with horizontal and vertical alignments in accordance with current standards. Through villages and townships, to ensure the safety of all road users, the provision of footpaths, cycleways and street lighting would enable safe and comfortable travel between the communities and to the main centres of Stornoway, Tarbert, Lochmaddy, Balivanich, Lochboisdale and Castlebay. However, it must be recognised that this would require investment of the order of some £200m with approximately 25% of this for Lewis. In comparison the Comhairle has available approximately £2m per year. Under normal circumstances it is unlikely that this deficit will ever improve. However, as part of on-going discussions with the respective windfarm developers, and included as conditions suggested as part of the Comhairle’s recent recommendation of the Lewis Wind Power and Beinn Mhor Power applications, a significant programme of transportation improvements and upgrading of structures has been identified. These improvement works are to the routes between Stornoway and Ness, Barvas and Shawbost and Stornoway and Lochs and the estimated value is some £20m. This represents some 35% of the investment required in these areas and the opportunities and benefits presented by these developments should not be ignored. A significant legacy will be left for the communities most affected during the relatively short construction period of the developments. Detractors already question if the nation’s taxpayers should continue to pour financial assistance into the Western Isles, including for transportation-related investment, when it can be suggested that when such opportunities are presented to them, the communities are not prepared to help themselves. Without significant additional investment for roads beyond that currently available, the reasonable aspirations will not be achieved in the foreseeable future. Yours sincerely, Donald Manford Chairman Transportation CommitteeNigel Scott Tel: 01851 709389 (Work) |
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