A record 46 Community Councils across the Highlands have come together to support a motion led by Councillor Helen Crawford, which will be debated by Highland Council on the 30th of September.
The motion addresses widespread concerns over energy infrastructure projects, including wind farms, battery energy storage systems, and hydro schemes, calling for more transparency, better planning, and greater consideration of the cumulative impact of these developments on Highland communities.
This collective action marks an unprecedented level of unity among Community Councils, with representatives from areas such as Kirkhill & Bunchrew, Caithness West, Strathpeffer, and Kiltearn voicing their frustrations over what they describe as “salami slicing”—the process of breaking down major infrastructure projects into smaller parts to avoid comprehensive scrutiny.
This practice, they argue, undermines local democracy and makes it harder for residents to understand and respond to proposals.
Kirkhill & Bunchrew Community Councillor Cameron Kemp stressed the importance of the motion, urging Highland Council to take a stand against the current planning process, which many feel prioritizes the interests of large energy companies over the wellbeing of local communities.
“Our landscape and communities should not be destroyed for the sake of the profits of multi-national energy companies,” Kemp said, highlighting the benefits of alternatives like underground and undersea cables, which are already used in other parts of the UK.
Caithness West Community Councillor Patricia Groves echoed these concerns, pointing to the growing number of wind farms in the region and Highland Council’s historical failure to consider the long-term impact of approving such developments.
Meanwhile, Kiltearn Community Councillor John McHardy noted that the complexity of multiple, overlapping proposals leaves local residents feeling overwhelmed and powerless, making it difficult to engage with the planning process effectively.
The motion also calls for specific training for Community Councillors to help them better navigate the planning system and ensure their voices are heard.
In addition, it proposes a review of Highland Council’s approach to planning and decision-making, particularly in terms of how community views are taken into account.
Brian Shaw, Director of the Ness District Salmon Fishery Board, added his support, emphasising the importance of addressing the cumulative impacts of multiple developments.
He highlighted concerns over pump storage hydro schemes on Loch Ness and the potential environmental damage they could cause.
Shaw described how piecemeal applications have led to major infrastructure developments being approved without proper consideration of their broader impact on the landscape and biodiversity.
As the debate on 30th September approaches, the 46 Community Councils and their supporters hope Highland Council will heed their call for more responsible planning and development that priorities the needs of local communities and the environment over corporate profits.
