Parliament Workbench
Data: Motions & questions to 19 Nov 2026

Written Question · S3W-40064 · Session 3

What estimated minimum distance is needed between a standard wind turbine and surrounding forestry, taking into account turbulence and requ…

Answered Asked by Liz Smith Con Lodged 1 Mar 2011

The question

To ask the Scottish Executive what estimated minimum distance is needed between a standard wind turbine and surrounding forestry, taking into account turbulence and required wind speeds.

The answer

Answered by Roseanna Cunningham on 14 Mar 2011 · 13 days after it was lodged, on time

The separation between wind turbines and trees depends on many factors, including local topography; the ambient wind regime; the size and type of turbines, and the height and species of tree
- as such there is no standard distance. It has been amply demonstrated that turbines can successfully be installed in Scottish forests with minimum disruption and with enhancement of habitats such as at Whitelee near Glasgow.

In the Official Report

No contribution in the Official Report cites S3W-40064 by reference.