What is it?

With the focus of a Just Transition to Net Zero, the Development Framework represents an ambitious vision for the future of the Hagshaw Energy Cluster and surrounds, identifying opportunities to enhance and invest in the local environment, communities and place.

Sitting on the border of South Lanarkshire and East Ayrshire, the Development Framework spans the footprint of the seven operational wind farms, a further four consented, and beyond. It includes communities closest to the Cluster in the Douglas Valley at Coalburn, Douglas, Glespin, Lesmahagow, Muirkirk, and Rigside.

Thought to be the first example of applying a Development Framework to a renewable energy cluster, it has now been adopted by both Planning Authorities as non-statutory guidance , to be used as material considerations in any planning applications and to promote positive change.

It is referenced as a case study in the Scottish Government’s Onshore Wind Policy Statement 2022, as an example of collaborative working.

Read and download the Development Framework HERE.

How was it developed?

The Development Framework was developed by a team led by LUC (Land Use Consultants) between 2020 and 2022. It was designed in collaboration with NatureScot, Architecture and Design Scotland, a group of wind farm developers and operators, East Ayrshire Council and South Lanarkshire Council and in consultation with landowners, communities, local businesses and other stakeholders and interested parties.

The Hagshaw Energy Cluster Developer Group, Landowner Forum and community-led Douglas Valley Advisory Group have been set up to focus on the delivery of Development Framework opportunities.

Why is it important?

For Scotland to achieve Net Zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045, a more collaborative and inclusive approach to how we achieve this goal is required, as put forward in the Development Framework.

In an established strategic location for large scale renewable energy projects, the Cluster has the potential to deliver a significant proportion of the Scottish Government target of 8 – 12 GW of new onshore wind deployment by 2030, making a substantial contribution towards the national Net Zero ambition by 2045.

Coupled with advocating quality through design and maximising benefits for people, place and nature, the Development Framework provides a basis for East Ayrshire Council and South Lanarkshire Council to work with developers, landowners, communities and other stakeholders to promote and adopt a coordinated approach to future renewable energy development across the Cluster.