The Braes of Doune Windfarm is a prominent windfarm development in the hills to the north-west of Stirling.  Land Use Consultants contributed to the design and Environmental Impact Assessment for this scheme in 2002, and was therefore delighted to be appointed to be involved as Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) during its construction.

The location of the windfarm meant that specific aspects of the construction were to be carried out with strict adherence to environmental protection.  It is set in the headwaters of a freshwater Special Area of Conservation designated for Atlantic salmon and lamprey, and otter, upland breeding birds and extensive blanket bog are present.  LUC ecologists were present on site full time for over two years, monitoring habitats and species, and providing ecological advice for the developer and their contractors.

As ECoWs at Braes of Doune, we were involved in the derivation of water pollution prevention measures, and the redesign of track layouts to avoid otter shelters.  We had a particular interest in the control of the use of concrete in the vicinity of freshwater environments and protection for nesting birds.

Effective and frequent communication between all parties, including the local authority, Scottish Natural Heritage and the Scottish Environment Protection Agency as well as the engaged local community, was an integral part of this project.

Over the two years, the LUC team successfully retained an independent stance amongst a wide range of interested parties, which is the key to delivery of good ECoW services.

This project required tenacity and determination, as large-scale engineering projects in difficult terrain and inclement weather can be both physically and mentally demanding.  The team also were flexible enough to resolve unexpected problems, for example when a local cattle herd “ate” the silt protection measures over the Christmas break!