Scottish ministers to appeal wind farm ruling

Scottish ministers are to appeal against a legal judgment that has blocked completion of a wind farm off the east coast.

Lord Stewart in the Court of Session said that the Scottish government agency tasked with regulating coastal waters, Marine Scotland, had failed to consult fully on the project.

The judicial review was brought by the RSPB, in a bid to protect the sea birds in the area. It argued that ministers had not given due consideration to rare wildlife.

A spokesman for the Scottish government said: “Scottish ministers have begun the process of appealing Lord Stewart’s judgments. Due to ongoing legal proceedings, the Scottish government will not be commenting further on this case.

“In terms of our overall approach to renewables, ministers remain absolutely committed to protecting our marine environment, while working to ensure we can realise the full potential of renewable energy products across Scotland – including offshore wind.”