Golden Eagle Project Challenges Wind Farm Plans in Southern Uplands
Conservationists warn that proposed Scawd Law turbines could threaten newly established eagle populations in the Borders
Conservation gains under threat
A major conservation initiative to restore Golden Eagles to the south of Scotland has raised the alarm over a proposed wind farm development in the Borders. The charity Restoring Upland Nature (RUN), formerly the South of Scotland Golden Eagle Project, has formally objected to Fred Olsen Renewables’ plan to build eight wind turbines at Scawd Law, near Walkerburn.
The turbines would lie close to the Moorfoot Hills, where one of the project’s first reintroduced eagle pairs has successfully bred. RUN warns that the development could jeopardise the fragile progress made since the first chicks were released in 2018.
Golden Eagles return to the southern skies
Golden Eagles were once almost absent from the south of Scotland, with as few as two to four breeding pairs in the region. Thanks to translocations from the Highlands and intensive management, numbers have now surged to around 50 birds. Some have even dispersed into northern England, a sign of growing stability.
However, these newly established populations remain highly sensitive to disturbance. “Breeding territories must remain undisturbed for long-term population sustainability,” said Dr Cat Barlow of RUN. “Golden Eagles tend to avoid areas around wind turbines, and the risk of collisions can have serious consequences.”
Obsolete data and growing risks
The charity has expressed concerns that the environmental data underpinning the planning application is out of date. “The Additional Information Report currently being used by the site’s developers is dated and substantially underestimates the impact on Golden Eagles,” said Dr Barlow.
She called for a new impact assessment using the latest eagle distribution and behaviour data. “The expansion of wind farms without rigorous, up-to-date environmental data risks pushing these birds out of the very landscapes they need to survive,” she said.
Balancing renewables with wildlife
While firmly supportive of renewable energy, RUN emphasised the need to locate developments appropriately. “We know that the drive for renewable energy comes from a position of caring for the environment,” said Dr Barlow. “It is key to reducing the carbon emissions which cause climate change - the greatest long-term threat to Scotland’s wildlife.”
She added that the solution lies in choosing wind farm locations based on the best available science: “We are supportive of renewable energy developments in the right place, but it is crucial that the most up-to-date insights are used in the consideration of proposals to ensure wildlife and renewable energy can thrive together.”
Fred Olsen Renewables has been approached for comment on the concerns raised.
June 2025
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