Wind turbine plant under threat

Scotland’s only wind turbine tower factory, which employs 92 people, is under threat, the BBC has learned

The Danish company Vestas is to cease production of turbine towers at its factory near Campbeltown.

BBC Scotland understands production will be gradually run down over the next few months.

Details emerged on the same day the company said it was experiencing huge demand for wind turbines and orders were up 67% on last year.

Local MSP and Enterprise Minister Jim Mather plans to meet with workers at the plant next week.

He expressed regret at the decision but said the Scottish Government and Highlands and Islands Enterprise would do everything possible to try to save the operation.

‘Body-blow’

The leader of Argyll and Bute Council, Dick Walsh, said the decision would hit the local area hard.

“This factory has supplied many people with employment opportunities since it opened, but today’s announcement will have a devastating impact on the whole community,” he said.

“Employment in Kintyre has already seen a dip following the closure of Campbeltown ship yard and, more recently, the Jaeger factory.

“In spite of this body-blow to the Kintyre economy we are continuing to look at projects which may help to regenerate this fragile community.”